…24-hour curfew continues, says Govt
In an effort to restore peace and order, the communities of Ifon and Ilobu in Osun state have entered into a peace agreement, effectively committing to cease hostilities. Despite the encouraging development, the state government has decided to maintain the 24-hour curfew in both areas.
Recent days saw the previously peaceful communities locked in a distressing conflict that resulted in significant loss of life and property damage. This alarming situation prompted the Osun state governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, to enforce the 24-hour curfew.
Osun state’s Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, conveyed the governor’s sentiments in a Friday night announcement. Highlights from the statement include:
- An affirmation that both Ifon and Ilobu communities have chosen to end their disagreements, demonstrated by the signed peace agreement.
- Governor Ademola Adeleke’s directive that the 24-hour curfew will persist in Orolu and Irepodun local governments, where the two communities are located, until further notice.
- A stakeholders’ meeting on Friday night, involving representatives from the state government and the communities, culminated in the peace agreement.
- The peace treaty was signed by key figures from the communities, including Chief Jimoh Waliyu of Ifon, Chief Babatunde Oyetunji of Ilobu, and Mr Bashiru Azeez of Olokanla, among others.
- In the wake of the peace pact, the curfew will continue to ensure a total restoration of peace and order within the affected communities.
- Any individuals or groups found to breach the peace accord will face legal consequences.
- Restriction of movement remains in place, with both human and vehicular movement limited until further direction from the governor.
- A Joint Security Task Force, which includes members of the Nigerian Army, Police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, will continue to monitor the situation.
- The state government pledges its commitment to upholding the constitution in its effort to protect its citizens.
- The government also expressed gratitude to the leadership of the involved communities for their decision to promote peace.
- Condolences were extended to the families affected by the recent upheaval.
Governor Adeleke lauded the communities for their commitment to restoring peace, emphasizing the importance of unity and progress over conflict. The government remains hopeful that this agreement marks the beginning of a peaceful coexistence in the affected areas.
