Tensions have escalated in Osun State as renewed boundary disputes between the Ifon and Ilobu communities have claimed the life of a former councilor, identified as Azeez.
The violent conflict, which erupted overnight, also left several houses burnt and many residents displaced.
Details surrounding Azeez’s death remain unclear, but sources from Ifon revealed that he was confirmed dead at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, in the early hours of Friday.
Reports indicate that the violence, which had been brewing for days, erupted into full-blown chaos, with both communities trading blame over the latest attacks.
Media aide to the Olufon of Ifon, Yusuf Adekunle, accused the Ilobu community of orchestrating the assault, claiming that their people were ambushed in the dead of night, leading to the destruction of homes and the burning of a woman inside her house.
He further alleged that a government-owned primary healthcare center in Akinponroro was also set ablaze.
However, Otun Jagun of Ilobu, Adegoke Ogunsola, dismissed these allegations, insisting that Ifon residents were the aggressors.
He recounted incidents where Ifon youths allegedly attacked Ilobu residents on their farms earlier in the week, leaving some injured and causing widespread panic.
The crisis has prompted Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to order immediate security intervention. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor condemned the violence, warning against the politicization of the conflict.
He has directed security forces to apprehend those responsible and restore peace between the warring communities.
Adeleke also called on the peace committee overseeing the dispute to re-engage both parties and ensure a swift resolution to prevent further bloodshed.
As security forces move in to quell the clashes, residents remain on edge, fearing further attacks in the ongoing territorial dispute.