The Osun State government in Nigeria has reinstated a 12-hour curfew in Ifon and Ilobu communities following fresh outbreaks of violence. Governor Ademola Adeleke extended the curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM daily, effective immediately, to curb escalating hostilities.
A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Public Engagement, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed the governor’s directive, which also mandates a security presence in the area. A joint security team comprising the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps will continue round-the-clock surveillance to prevent further unrest.
Additionally, Governor Adeleke has summoned the Olufon of Ifon, Oba Peter Akinyooye, and the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, along with other community stakeholders, for an emergency peace meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025.
The curfew comes after renewed clashes between the two communities led to the death of a former Ifon councillor, identified as Azeez, and the destruction of several homes. The circumstances surrounding Azeez’s death remain unclear, though reports indicate he was shot and later died at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.
While Ifon representatives accuse Ilobu residents of instigating the attacks, Ilobu leaders have denied the allegations, claiming they were targeted instead.
