Ifon-Ilobu crisis: Osun Govt debunks old video of communal clash

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

The Osun State Government has dismissed an old video of a communal conflict circulating on social media, describing it as misleading and aimed at creating a false sense of insecurity in the state.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, in a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, urged the public to disregard the footage, emphasizing that his administration has intensified efforts to de-escalate the Ifon-Ilobu crisis. Measures taken include imposing a 24-hour curfew, deploying a joint security task force, and hosting peace talks between the warring communities.

“We want to bring to the public’s attention that old videos of communal conflicts in some parts of Osun State are being circulated by opposition elements to spread false narratives about insecurity,” the statement read.

“While the ongoing conflict is unfortunate, and efforts are in place to end the violence, we caution against fake news merchants digging up old videos to discredit the government. The videos showing violence in other towns and villages in Osun are false and should be ignored.”

Meanwhile, Governor Adeleke has reassured the people of Ilobu and Ifon that swift conflict resolution measures are underway to restore peace.

Responding to a Save Our Soul message from the affected communities, he stated that his administration has re-strategized its approach with multiple peacebuilding initiatives already being implemented.

“I assure the people of Ilobu and Ifon that I am committed to securing their lives and properties. I have updated the Presidency on the situation, and we are fully in control,” Adeleke said.