JUST IN: Many Injured, Shops, Houses Burnt As Fresh War Breaks Out In Osun Communities

A fresh wave of violence has erupted between Ifon in Orolu Local Government and Ilobu in Irepodun Local Government of Osun State, leaving at least 30 residents injured and several houses and shops set ablaze.

The latest communal clash, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, is said to be a continuation of hostilities over disputed land and long-standing tensions between the two neighbouring communities.

Reports gathered by Dtruth Insights indicate that prior to the outbreak of the fresh conflict, both sides had engaged in attacks on farmlands and villages, escalating tensions in the area.

A video shared on social media by a group identified as Concerned Youth of Ifon Osun, Orolu Kingdom showed distressed residents decrying the attacks allegedly carried out by Ilobu indigenes.

The group stated, “We can’t keep watching Ilobu people burn our shops and houses in the midnight any longer. We, the Youth of Ifon Osun Orolu Kingdom, call on the Osun State Government to hasten their intervention before the situation gets out of control.”

They accused Ilobu hoodlums of consistently launching brutal attacks and destroying their properties despite the peace efforts of Oba Peter Oluwole Ipadeola Ilufemiloye Akinyooye III, Olufon of Ifon Osun Orolu Kingdom.

“Our peace-loving and law-abiding king has been calming our youths and advising restraint, despite the ongoing aggression from Ilobu. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult for us to remain passive while our ancestral properties and farmlands are being destroyed and our people are being harmed,” the group added.

Reacting to the allegations, Chief Leke Ogunsola, the Otun Jagun of Ilobu, denied that Ilobu indigenes were the aggressors. Instead, he claimed that Ifon residents had been attacking Ilobu people on their farmlands since Tuesday.

According to him, “They have been attacking our people at farmlands like Agbere Onireke and Opapa. They even attempted to kidnap one of our chiefs, but he was rescued by nearby farmers.”

He further alleged that on Wednesday, Ifon attackers stormed Gbere farm, burnt motorcycles, and destroyed houses at Oke-Ekutu, Akipanroro, Ganga, and Oke-Ayepe.

“Yesterday evening, they started burning and shooting at our people. Most of the victims are children and women. We have been extracting bullets from their bodies through local means. Over 30 people have been treated at the palace, and more are still being brought in.”

When contacted for an official response, Osun Police spokesperson, Akeem Adeoye, said, “We will get back to you soon.”