In a decisive move aimed at quelling ongoing unrest, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has issued a stark warning to the monarchs of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun, vowing to remove any traditional ruler who fails to ensure peace and stability in their domains.
This tough stance comes in response to recent violent clashes in these communities, which have resulted in tragic loss of life, widespread destruction, and arson.
The governor’s directive follows a series of violent outbreaks that saw hoodlums set fire to buildings and left the communities shaken.
In an effort to restore order, the state government imposed a curfew on the affected areas, though it has since been relaxed from a 24-hour restriction to a more lenient 17-hour daily curfew.
However, the relaxation of the curfew has raised concerns that some individuals might use this window to reignite violence, leading Governor Adeleke to take a firm stance.
In a statement issued on Monday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor made it clear that any traditional ruler who does not actively work to sustain peace in their community would face severe consequences, including the possibility of being deposed from office.
“I have received disturbing reports of plans to escalate violence in Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun, especially during the upcoming Sallah celebrations,” Governor Adeleke stated. “Security agencies have been placed on high alert to ensure that those plotting these violent acts are swiftly apprehended. Any traditional ruler whose community is engulfed in further violence will be held fully accountable and could lose their position.”
The governor also clarified that the easing of the curfew was done out of compassion for the residents caught in the conflict, offering a brief respite from the harsh restrictions.
However, he warned that any renewed outbreaks of violence would result in the immediate re-imposition of the full, 24-hour curfew.
“There will be no room for leniency,” Adeleke stressed. “Monarchs must take full responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of their people. I will not hesitate to wield the big stick if necessary—enough is enough.”
In addition to the stern warning to traditional rulers, the state government has ramped up security measures, with key figures linked to the unrest undergoing swift interrogation.
Governor Adeleke’s message to the leadership of these communities is unequivocal: they must uphold law and order or face dire consequences. The government is determined to prevent any further violence, and it is making it clear that no one—least of all the traditional rulers—will be allowed to undermine peace and stability in the state.
