The Osun State Government has issued a stern warning to traditional rulers in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun communities, stating that they risk dethronement if communal clashes continue in their domains.
Grassroots Parrot reports that Governor Ademola Adeleke delivered this warning on Monday following reports of renewed tensions in these conflict-prone areas.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor cautioned against any attempt to take advantage of the recent relaxation of the curfew to incite violence.
He emphasized that the government would not hesitate to take decisive action against erring royal fathers and other individuals involved in the crisis.
“During the Sallah celebrations, I received reports of plans to instigate another round of conflict in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun. Security agencies have intensified surveillance to prevent any attacks,” Adeleke stated.
READ ALSO: Uromi Killings: Edo Governor Meets Sen. Barau, 14 Suspects To Face Interrogation in Abuja
The governor further disclosed that security operatives were expediting investigations into key figures suspected of fueling the conflict.
He stressed that peace agreements signed by community leaders must be respected, warning that any violation would have serious consequences.
“The security agencies are interrogating key actors in the crisis. I remind the leaders of these communities that the peace accord they signed is binding. They will be held accountable, and there will be consequences under the law,” he added.
Adeleke clarified that the decision to ease the curfew was based on humanitarian grounds, recognizing the suffering of innocent residents due to the actions of a few individuals instigating violence. However, he warned that any resurgence of unrest would lead to the full reinstatement of the 24-hour curfew.
“The curfew was relaxed out of compassion for innocent residents affected by the crisis. However, any attempt to use this as an opportunity to reignite violence will lead to a full reinstatement of the 24-hour curfew,” he declared.
READ ALSO: Death Of Kano-Based Anambra Indigene Has No Link With Edo Killings – Community Forum
The governor also issued a direct warning to traditional rulers, stating that any monarch whose domain experiences fresh violence would face removal from office.
“Any traditional ruler under whose jurisdiction violence erupts again will be removed from office. This is a serious warning. Royal fathers must ensure peace in their communities. Enough is enough,” Adeleke asserted.
He urged residents to support security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities that could jeopardize the stability of the affected communities.