Ifon-Ilobu Communal Clash: Oyetola Sues For Peace, Urges Stakeholders To Step In

Former Osun State Governor and current minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged all parties involved in the Ifon-Osun and Ilobu crisis to stop the carnage and give peace a chance.

Ifon-Osun and Ilobu are neighbouring communities in Orolu and Irepodun Local Government Areas of Osun state, where hostility broke out again on Friday.

In a statement released by his Media Office, Oyetola said that it had become imperative for Ilobu and Ifon-Osun to put an end to the avoidable crisis that has led to the wanton destruction of property, killings, injuries and displacement of families.

“This unfortunate situation is not only heartbreaking but also undermines the peace and development we have all worked hard to sustain in Osun State. I strongly urge all parties involved to lay down their arms and embrace dialogue as the only path to resolving any grievances,” he said.

The former governor, who said he was deeply concerned about the renewed hostility, commiserated with the families and relatives of those who lost their lives to the violence and also sympathised with those who lost their valued property.

Oyetola further noted that whenever crisis erupted in the past, it was usually deescalated through the traditional rulers. He, therefore, wondered why this latest violence was allowed to degenerate to this level.

“Peace is fundamental to any human existence. It is always good to come to the round table to dialogue and negotiate than to resort to violence in whatever circumstance.

“The two communities must stop the fight permanently, jettison their differences and continue to live together as brothers and sisters by continually taking maximum advantage of their unity and togetherness as well as the prospects in their diversity regardless of borders and boundaries.

“With my sojourn in life, I have come to realise that nothing good can come from communal clash and as such, every being must do everything humanly possible to forestall clash of any nature.

“I want to note that no matter the issue at stake, it is not worth the life of any Osun citizen. I, therefore, appeal to our people to allow peace to reign forthwith.

“As it was done in the past, I call on traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to intervene decisively and foster reconciliation that will prevent further shedding of blood and destruction of property. The people of Ifon-Osun and Ilobu have lived as neighbors for generations; it is imperative that we uphold the spirit of brotherhood, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. If genuinely taken by the two sides, dialogue and negotiation are more profitable and rewarding.

“To the security operatives, you must ensure you live above board and restore permanent peace and ensure justice in the affected areas,” Oyetola said.