Renewed clash erupts between Ifon, Ilobu communities in Osun

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

A fresh wave of violence has erupted between Ifon in Orolu Local Government and Ilobu in Irepodun Local Government of Osun State, resulting in the reported loss of lives and no fewer than 30 persons sustaining gunshot injuries.

It was gathered that the clash began about five days ago, with both communities trading accusations over the cause of the conflict.

Spokesperson for the Olufon of Ifon, Akeem Adekunle Yusuf, alleged that Ilobu youths invaded their community around 11 p.m. on Thursday, shooting indiscriminately and setting houses ablaze.

“As I speak, I cannot confirm the number of our people who have been killed or the exact number of houses destroyed. A woman was thrown into her house before it was set on fire,” he claimed.

Similarly, Chief Adegoke Ogunsola, the Otun Jagun of Ilobu, alleged that Ifon youths had been attacking Ilobu farmers at Gbere Onireke and Opapa since Monday. He added that the Baale of Opapa, Liasu Ishola, was assaulted, and an attempt was made to abduct him from his residence.

Ogunsola also accused residents of Erin-Osun of joining forces with Ifon to attack Ilobu, claiming that about 10 houses were burned in the Oke-Ayepe and Ayedaade communities.

“Late in the evening yesterday, they went to Oke-Ebutu in Ilobu, destroying houses while residents were observing Tarawih prayers in the mosque. People fled for their lives as the attackers set fire to homes across various parts of Ilobu, including Ganga, Apinponroro, Olobu Market, Elentere, and Oke-Ayepe,” he stated.

Reacting to the crisis, Osun Police Command spokesperson Akeem Adeoye said security personnel had been deployed to restore peace and order in the affected communities.