A violent communal clash between Ifon and Ilobu in Osun State has left many injured and homes destroyed. Both communities blame each other for the attacks. Security forces have been deployed to restore order. Residents call for peace as tensions remain high in the region.
A violent clash between the communities of Ifon in Orolu Local Government Area and Ilobu in Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State has left several people injured and multiple houses destroyed.
The crisis, which reportedly began five days ago, has escalated, with both sides accusing each other of aggression. According to Akeem Adekunle Yusuf, spokesperson for the Olufon of Ifon, armed individuals from Ilobu allegedly invaded their community, torching homes and attacking residents. He claimed that some victims were trapped inside burning houses, though the exact number of casualties remains unclear.
In response, Chief Adegoke Ogunsola, a leader in Ilobu, accused Ifon youths of targeting Ilobu farmers in surrounding villages, including an attempted abduction of a local chief. He further alleged that Ifon attackers, supported by Erin-Osun residents, set fire to at least ten houses in various Ilobu communities, displacing many residents.
Eyewitnesses reported that the violence intensified Thursday night, with homes and properties in areas like Ganga, Apinponroro, Olobu Market, and Elentere in Ilobu being reduced to ashes.
Amid growing tensions, the Osun State Police Command has deployed officers to the affected areas to restore peace. Authorities are urging both communities to stand down while security forces work to contain the violence.
The unrest has sparked concerns about ongoing communal conflicts in Osun, with residents calling for lasting solutions to prevent further destruction and displacement.
