Oluwo of Iwo condemns killings over LG control in Osun, calls for peace
The Oluwo of Iwo in Osun State, Oba Abdurosheed Akanbi, has strongly condemned the recent reports of killings linked to the struggle for control of local governments across the state.
In a statement personally signed by the monarch and made available to journalists by his press secretary, Alli Ibraheem, Oba Akanbi called for an end to violence and urged political parties to put peace above political ambitions.
“I offer my royal appeal to the good people of Osun State, especially the politicians, to desist from acts capable of destroying the existing peaceful co-existence in the state,” the statement read.
The monarch expressed deep concern over the violent attacks reported in several local governments, emphasizing that such acts do not reflect the true nature of Osun as a land of virtues.
He stressed the importance of prioritizing the safety of lives and the protection of public infrastructure built with the collective resources of the people.
“The violence attacks reported by the media in some local governments are worrisome. It doesn’t depict the true image of the state as a land of virtues. Let’s prioritize our lives and protect the infrastructures built by our collective resources,” Oba Akanbi said.
He also appealed to political actors involved in the crisis to take the honorable path of peace and orderliness, highlighting the destructive consequences of violence. “Violence draws an entity back. That we don’t pray for in Osun,” he added.
Addressing the people of Iwo, the monarch reminded them of their unity and the interconnectedness of the community. He cautioned against any form of violence, warning that anyone who attempts to disrupt the peace of Iwo would face traditional retribution.
“Any harm you do to anyone in Iwo is an injury to yourself because we are all connected, either directly or indirectly,” he said.
He also drew attention to the lessons from past political violence in Iwo, noting that none of those involved in such acts had fared well in the long run.
“Learn from those who have played an active role in political violence in Iwo in the past. None of them ended well. The past should present an experience for the future,” the monarch cautioned.
Oba Akanbi concluded by urging all residents of Osun State to prioritize the state’s well-being over temporary political interests.
“Once again, Osun State is ours. Let’s prioritize her interest before any political consideration. Most political interests are temporary, Osun State is permanent. Let peace and orderliness be our mandate,” he said.
The statement comes amid heightened political tension in the state, with local government control being a major point of contention among political parties.
