Osun State Governor Imposes Curfew on Ifon and Ilobu Communities Amid Renewed Land Dispute Crisis
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has reimposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on Ifon and Ilobu communities following a fresh outbreak of violence over a longstanding land dispute. The curfew, which takes effect from 6 pm to 6 am, was announced on Friday, March 21, 2025, after gunmen reportedly invaded Ilobu community, resulting in one fatality, shootings, and the burning of houses.
This is not the first time Governor Adeleke has imposed a curfew on the two communities. A previous curfew, imposed in January 2025, was relaxed in early March to allow for Ramadan fasting and the gradual return of peace. However, the resurgence of violence has necessitated stricter measures to restore order.
Governor’s Directive and Security Measures
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, Governor Adeleke expressed deep concern over the renewed crisis and directed security agencies to maintain 24-hour surveillance in the affected areas.
“His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, has expressed unhappiness and dissatisfaction with the breakout of fresh communal crises in Ilobu and Ifon. To this end, the Governor has directed that the initial 10 pm to 4 am curfew now be extended to 6 pm to 6 am, effective today, Friday, March 21, 2025, until further notice,” the statement read.
The governor also warned that anyone found aiding or abetting the crisis would face severe consequences. A joint security team comprising the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has been deployed to enforce the curfew and maintain peace.
Stakeholders’ Meeting to Address Crisis
In addition to the curfew, Governor Adeleke has called for a stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, March 22, 2025, to discuss lasting solutions to the conflict. The meeting will include traditional rulers such as the Olufon of Ifon, Oba Peter Akinyooye, and the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, as well as other community leaders and stakeholders.
The governor’s proactive approach aims to foster dialogue and reconciliation between the warring communities, addressing the root causes of the dispute and preventing further violence.
Background of the Land Dispute
The conflict between Ifon and Ilobu communities over disputed lands has persisted for years, leading to periodic outbreaks of violence. Despite previous interventions, including curfews and peace talks, the underlying tensions have remained unresolved.
The latest incident underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and sustainable resolution to the dispute. The involvement of traditional rulers and community leaders in the upcoming stakeholders’ meeting is a positive step toward achieving lasting peace.
Implications for Osun State
The renewed violence and imposition of a curfew have significant implications for Osun State, particularly in terms of security, economic activities, and social cohesion. The disruption caused by the crisis affects not only the immediate communities but also the broader region, as businesses, schools, and daily life are impacted.
Governor Adeleke’s swift response highlights his administration’s commitment to maintaining law and order. However, the recurring nature of the conflict suggests that more robust measures, including legal and administrative interventions, may be necessary to address the root causes of the dispute.
Next Steps
As the stakeholders’ meeting convenes on Saturday, all eyes will be on the outcomes and the proposed solutions to the crisis. The success of the meeting will depend on the willingness of both communities to engage in constructive dialogue and compromise.
In the meantime, the enforcement of the curfew and the presence of security forces are expected to restore calm and prevent further violence. The state government’s efforts to mediate the conflict and promote reconciliation will be critical in ensuring long-term peace and stability in Ifon and Ilobu communities.
