Osun: Ex-councillor dies, houses razed in Ifon-Ilobu crisis

A former councilor from Ifon Orolu, Osun State, identified as Azeez, has reportedly been killed as the long-standing boundary dispute between Ifon and Ilobu communities escalated.

Details surrounding his death remain unclear, but a resident of Ifon, speaking anonymously for safety reasons, confirmed that Azeez was pronounced dead at Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, early Friday. The renewed clashes have also led to the destruction of several houses.

Yusuf Adekunle, media aide to the Olufon of Ifon, alleged that Ilobu residents orchestrated the attacks. However, Otun Jagun of Ilobu, Adegoke Ogunsola, dismissed the claims, accusing Ifon residents of initiating violence that left many injured.

Adekunle stated that despite prior petitions to the governor and security agencies, gunmen launched an overnight attack, setting houses on fire and targeting border areas such as Akinponroro and Odo Oje. He also claimed that a woman was thrown into her burning home and that a government-owned primary health care facility was among the properties destroyed.

Ogunsola, speaking on behalf of Ilobu, recounted previous incidents where Ifon residents allegedly attacked farmers, including an attempted abduction and a shooting. He noted that security agencies have struggled to contain the escalating violence and called for urgent intervention.

In response, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered immediate security operations to restore peace and directed the joint security task force to apprehend those responsible for the violence. He also urged the peace committee to revive efforts to prevent further bloodshed and destruction.