Following inter-state communal war between communities in the Oyo and Osun states boundary, the governors of the two states, Ademola Adeleke and Seyi Makinde, have commenced peace moves.
The Nation recalled that the communal war started weeks ago, leading to the destruction of property, including the houses of chiefs, hence Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed, raised alarm after the escalation of the clash.
Subsequently, Adeleke in a statement through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed disclosed that Osun governor with his Oyo counterpart, Seyi Makinde have waded into the incessant border clashes between Lagelu and Iwo local governments of both states ahead the release of the report of the National Boundary Commission (NBC).
According to him, the two governors met over the dispute during the week and resolved on immediate actions which include a directive to the deputy governors of both states to meet and then visit the areas involved in the dispute.
“The resolution which was reached at the Ibadan residence of Governor Makinde emphasised the need for peaceful engagement and resolution of all outstanding issues, charging the Deputy Governors to meet leaders of Lagelu and Iwo communities involved in the confrontation.
“The deputy governors are also to look into other related boundary disputes, such as the recurring one between Orolu local government and Ogbomoso areas of the two states.”
He noted that the governors called for restraints and cessation of reported raids into each other’s territories by aggrieved parties, insisting on due process and the rule of law in conflict resolution.
“The National Boundary Commission had conducted a mediation visitation to the disputed areas to collate data from documentary and oral evidence to determine the exact boundary of the two states.
“The federal agency has, however, not released its report despite several follow-ups by the stakeholders, creating a vacuum being exploited by violating groups.
“In the last month, several villages in Iwo local government have been attacked, while the Lagelu groups also alleged attacks on their men and settlements.”
Rasheed said Adeleke at the meeting emphasised the historical linkage between the two states, declaring that we are one and we must peacefully resolve any outstanding issues.
“I commend my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, on this proactive decision. Our deputy governors will take up the matter as a matter of urgency”, Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying.
