- A prominent cleric in Osun State warned that political players were exaggerating the Ifon-Ilobu conflict reports
- The cleric claimed the narrative was being manipulated to justify a state of emergency
- Tensions between the two communities had already resulted in violent clashes over land disputes
A popular cleric in Osun State has claimed that the recent reports surrounding the Ifon-Ilobu communal conflict are politically motivated, suggesting that they could be a strategy to provoke a state of emergency in the state.
The cleric, named Sheik Ustaz Abdullah Olohunlomerue, expressed concern over the growing tensions between the two communities, accusing political players of using the unrest to destabilise the region and justify an emergency rule, like what happened in Rivers State with the installation of Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator.
In a video seen online, the cleric remarked that while violence in the Ifon-Ilobu area has been unfortunate, the narratives being pushed by certain political figures seem exaggerated and designed to create an atmosphere of fear and instability.
According to the religious leader, the aim behind such reports is clear: to create a political climate that would lead to the declaration of a state of emergency, which would further centralise power and possibly weaken local governance.
The Ifon-Ilobu conflict, which has simmered for several weeks, has seen violent clashes between the two communities, leading to the loss of lives and property.
The violence was initially attributed to a long-standing land dispute, but the involvement of political factions, especially with the upcoming state elections in focus, has raised suspicions about deeper motives behind the unrest.
The cleric, who has been a prominent advocate for peace and unity within the region, cautioned that any external interference under the guise of restoring order would have a detrimental impact on the state’s democratic process.
"Ilobu and Ifon are not fighting, its the politicain that are causing unrest amidst themselves, they feel if the videos are sent to Abuja, a state of emergency will be declared, the people of Osun must not fall prey to these divisive tactics, peaceful resolutions and dialogue are the only path to genuine stability," he stated.
Gunshots fired as PDP, APC clash in Osun
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that violence erupted at the Osogbo Central Local Government Area in Oke Baale on Monday, February 17, as members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) clashed while attempting to enter the council secretariat.
The incident, which involved gunshots and street violence, caused chaos in the vicinity.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunfire near the entrance to the secretariat, while a bloody altercation between two men, believed to be associated with one of the political factions, was observed.
