News Update

THE Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Asiru Olatoye Olaniyan has expressed deep concern over the recurring communal violence involving the three neighbouring communities of Ilobu, Ifon-Osun, and Erin-Osun in Irepodun and Orolu Local Government Areas of Osun State.

The monarch, who has spent over five decades on the throne, described the recent spate of violence as disheartening and a betrayal of the long-standing culture of peace that the people of Ilobu have consistently upheld.

In a heartfelt statement titled “Towards Achieving Genuine Peace”, the revered monarch lamented the tragic loss of lives and property within the last 18 months, which he attributed to greed and the overzealousness of a few individuals.

According to him, over 30 indigenes of Ilobu have been gruesomely killed, homes have been burnt to ashes, and livelihoods violently destroyed.

Despite these provocations, he urged his people to remain calm and steadfast in their commitment to peace.

“I feel your pain, anguish, and agony,” the monarch said. “But I plead with you to continue to maintain peace as we have been instructed by our forefathers. May we all rise above the challenges of this moment.”

Oba Olaniyan commended the Osun State Government, security agencies, and other stakeholders for their ongoing efforts to quell the unrest.

He particularly appreciated the Nigerian Army, the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Amotekun Corps, and other peace-loving Nigerians for working tirelessly to restore order.

The monarch, however, expressed disappointment that despite several judicial interventions over the years, Ilobu continues to suffer violent attacks.

He referenced landmark legal cases dating back to the 1970s, which upheld Ilobu’s historical claims and territorial rights. Despite these rulings, he noted, the community has remained a target of aggression.

“We never expected such bloody communal attacks to recur, especially with the ongoing efforts by the Osun State Government to resolve the boundary dispute permanently. Unfortunately, these violent assaults betray common sense,” he lamented.

Oba Olaniyan also criticised the spread of misinformation on social media, accusing certain individuals of distorting facts to turn victims into aggressors.

He called on the public to be wary of fake news that could exacerbate the crisis.

“It is disheartening to see how lies, fake news, and disinformation have been used to stoke the flames of conflict. Some individuals have taken to social media to rewrite history and fuel hatred. We must not allow these falsehoods to destroy the bonds that bind us together,” he warned.

Highlighting the resilience of his community, the monarch recounted how Ilobu has consistently pursued judicial means rather than resorting to violence, even when provoked.

He pointed to several court rulings that affirmed Ilobu’s rights, adding that his people have always chosen peace over self-help.

“We have produced illustrious sons and daughters who could have used their influence to oppress our neighbours, but we chose peace instead. We have always sought justice through the courts, and we have abided by judicial decisions even when they did not fully favour us,” he stated.

The monarch made a passionate appeal to the Osun State Government to provide relief materials for the victims of the latest attacks.

He called for the arrest and diligent prosecution of perpetrators, increased surveillance to prevent further violence, and a review of the 24-hour curfew to allow residents to rebuild their lives.

“Our people are currently displaced, taking shelter under canopies that cannot shield them from the rains. Many are farmers and traders who live on daily incomes, and their survival is now at risk. I appeal to the government to help our people get back on their feet,” he pleaded.

Oba Olaniyan reiterated his commitment to offering wise counsel towards a long-term resolution of the lingering conflict.

He urged all stakeholders to prioritise peace and unity, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of harmony.“As a community, we have always chosen peace. Let us not allow the actions of a few to define our future. Together, we can build a better and more united Irepodun and Orolu Local Government Areas,” he concluded.