Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reimposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew on Ifon and Ilobu communities following renewed violence over disputed lands.
The latest unrest, which erupted late Thursday, reportedly left one person feared dead after gunmen attacked Ilobu, shooting residents and setting houses ablaze.
In response, Governor Adeleke extended the existing curfew from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, effective Friday, March 21, 2025, until further notice. The decision follows previous curfew measures, including the January 2025 restriction, which was lifted earlier this month due to Ramadan and a temporary return of peace.
A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring stability:
“His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, has expressed deep dissatisfaction over the renewed crisis in Ilobu and Ifon. To this end, the initial 10 PM to 4 AM curfew is now extended to 6 PM to 6 AM, effective immediately.”
To enforce the curfew and prevent further escalation, a joint security task force comprising the Nigerian Army, Police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) will maintain round-the-clock surveillance in the affected areas.
Stakeholders’ Meeting Scheduled for Conflict Resolution
Governor Adeleke has also summoned a crucial stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, March 22, 2025, bringing together traditional rulers and community leaders, including:
Oba Peter Akinyooye, the Olufon of Ifon
Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, the Olobu of Ilobu
Other key stakeholders from both communities
The meeting aims to chart a sustainable path toward lasting peace. The governor further warned that any individual or group found instigating or fueling the crisis would face severe consequences.
Authorities urge residents to comply with the curfew as security operatives intensify efforts to restore normalcy.
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