Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has announced a major adjustment to the curfew imposed on Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun, reducing it from 17 hours to 12 hours daily. The new curfew will now run from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM, following reports of improved security and a gradual return to peace in the affected communities.
The decision was disclosed by Kolapo Alimi, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, who noted that the revised curfew aligns with recommendations from recent security reports. These reports suggest that the violent tension among the three communities is subsiding.
The three communities had witnessed violent clashes that led to loss of lives and destruction of properties, prompting the initial 17-hour curfew. The unrest had severely affected the day-to-day activities of residents, including educational and economic pursuits.
However, with signs of de-escalation, Governor Adeleke moved swiftly to adjust the curfew—especially in light of the upcoming West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), which begins April 24.
“The new time frame of the curfew will also allow our children who want to write WAEC, NECO and JAMB Examinations to be able to do so without any form of hindrance, as we cannot allow their future to be mortgaged,” Governor Adeleke stated.
Despite the reduction in curfew hours, 24-hour surveillance will continue in all three communities. The governor emphasized that peace must not be taken for granted and issued a stern warning that anyone found disrupting public peace will face legal action.
To bolster the reconciliation effort, Adeleke also directed a 100-member crisis resolution committee to fast-track peace talks and engage stakeholders from the communities. The committee is expected to provide lasting solutions to the communal grievances.
Governor Adeleke stressed the importance of peace and unity in enabling the growth and development of the state. He affirmed that his administration remains committed to ensuring that Osun State becomes a place where security, education, and development can thrive without obstruction.
“It is only in an atmosphere of peace and unity that the much-sought growth and development can be achieved in the three communities of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun as well as the entire state,” he concluded.
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