Gunmen Open Fire as Tensions Escalate Between Osun Communities in Fierce Land Dispute
Violence between Ifon and Ilobu communities in Osun State flared up once again on Tuesday, with two individuals reported to have been shot in the ongoing dispute over land boundaries. This attack marks the latest escalation in a series of violent clashes that have plagued the region, causing fatalities, property damage, and displacement since late 2023.
Jide Akinyooye, the national secretary of the Ifon-Orolu Progressive Union, confirmed that gunmen from Ilobu were responsible for the attack, which left two Ifon residents wounded and others forced to flee their homes. Akinyooye condemned the assault, emphasizing the continued defiance of both the Osun State government’s efforts and security agencies’ mandates. “This blatant disregard for human life and the state’s authority is unacceptable,” he said.
Despite previous efforts by the Osun State government to address the land conflict, including attempts to create a buffer zone at Opapa, Akinyooye pointed out that Ilobu’s actions have escalated tensions, jeopardizing innocent lives. He urged the government to take swift action to hold the perpetrators accountable.
In response, Otun Jagun of Ilobu, Leke Ogunsola, accused Ifon-Orolu residents of instigating the latest violence. He claimed that gunmen from Ifon attacked the Ganga Akinpororo community near Ilobu’s Golden Gate, destroying properties and forcing local residents to flee. Ogunsola further alleged that these attackers, who he referred to as mercenaries, opened fire indiscriminately.
“The attack occurred around noon when gunmen from Ifon-Osun invaded Akinpororo,” he stated. “While some residents tried to protect their properties, the attackers forced many to flee. I commend the security forces for their quick response, and I urge them to remain on the ground to prevent further violence.”
Ogunsola also mentioned a recent meeting with the deputy governor, following a threat issued by Akinyooye, which demanded that Ilobu and the state vacate certain lands within 14 days or face conflict.
As of now, the Osun State government has not issued any public statement regarding the renewed hostilities between the two communities.
