The Osun State Government has inaugurated a 100 member committee to resolve agelong communal clash between Ifon-Osun and Ilobu communities in the state.
Government gave the committee two weeks to restore peace to the crisis-ridden neighbouring communities.
The state governor, Ademola Adeleke, while speaking through his Deputy, Kola Adewusi, issued a stern warning to perpetrators of communal land disputes in the Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun areas, urging them to lay down their arms and embrace peace.
This warning follows persistent conflicts that have resulted in the loss of lives and wanton destruction of property in the affected communities.
Adewusi inaugurated the 100-member Land Crisis Resolution Committee on Monday at the Local Government Service Commission Secretariat in Osogbo.
Expressing the government’s deep concern over the incessant land disputes, Adewusi emphasised the need for urgent intervention to ensure lasting peace.
He noted that the ongoing crises have not only disrupted communal harmony but also hindered growth and development in the state.
The deputy governor said, “It is imperative to urgently nurture peace in the affected communities with a view to permanently uprooting the seeds of animosity sown over the years. Transforming differences into dialogue rather than enmity is key. Through reasoned discourse, we can weave the fabric of peace that will propel the prosperity of our state.”
He announced the formation of an expanded Land Crisis Resolution Committee, comprising 25 representatives each from Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun, alongside 25 representatives from the state government. The committee is tasked with resolving the boundary crises and ensuring that peace prevails.
The Ataoja of Osogboland, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, will serve as Chairman of the committee, while a retired judge, Justice Moshood Adekunle Adeigbe, and Chairman of the Osun State Boundary Commission, will act as Co-Chairman.
Four other traditional rulers and select individuals appointed by the government will also serve as members.
The deputy governor urged the committee members to leverage their expertise to achieve lasting peace, emphasising that harmony is essential for social and economic stability.
Adewusi further directed the committee to submit its findings and recommendations within two weeks.
Adeigbe, speaking on behalf of the committee, pledged to work diligently to fulfill the mandate and ensure peace is restored.
He noted that sustainable development can only be achieved in a crisis-free environment and called on all stakeholders to cooperate.
Other committee members also expressed their commitment to meeting the state government’s expectations within the given timeframe.