The Osun State Government has warned traditional rulers in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun that they risk dethronement if communal clashes continue in their domains.
Governor Ademola Adeleke issued the stern warning on Monday following reports of renewed tensions in the conflict-prone areas.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor cautioned against exploiting the recent relaxation of the curfew for fresh violence, emphasizing that the government would take decisive action against any royal father or community leader found complicit.
“In the midst of Sallah celebrations, I got reports of some people planning another round of conflict around Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun towns. The security agencies have tightened surveillance to ensure no attacks take place,” Adeleke stated.
He further disclosed that security operatives were accelerating investigations into key figures suspected of fueling the crisis. He warned that any breach of the peace agreements signed by community leaders would have serious consequences.
“The security agencies are also speeding up the interrogation of key chieftains and actors in the conflict. I will remind top leaders of the towns that the peace undertaking they signed is not a joke. They will be held accountable before the law,” he added.
Adeleke explained that the recent curfew adjustment was made on humanitarian grounds to ease the suffering of innocent residents. However, he warned that any further unrest would lead to the full reinstatement of the 24-hour curfew.
“Any attempt to exploit the curfew adjustment for renewed violence will be met with the full re-imposition of the 24-hour curfew,” the governor declared.
He also made it clear that traditional rulers would be removed from office if fresh violence erupted in their communities.
“I will remove from office any traditional ruler where violence recurs. This card is on the table. Royal fathers of each town must call their subjects to order. I will wield the big stick. Enough is enough,” Adeleke warned.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to lasting peace and urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, report suspicious activities, and avoid any form of lawlessness.
