Amid ongoing communal clashes involving Erin-Osun, Ilobu, and Ifon-Osun, fresh concerns have emerged over alleged deliberate efforts to derail peace initiatives.
A statement from Erin-Osun leaders has accused Ilobu of frustrating reconciliation efforts despite multiple attempts to resolve the crisis. According to the statement, Ilobu initially agreed to the composition of a reconciliation committee led by the Ataoja of Osogbo, along with a neutral co-chairman. The list of committee members was reportedly shared with all three communities for approval before the committee commenced its work. However, Ilobu later withdrew from the proceedings at the peace meeting venue, raising concerns over its commitment to a resolution.
Beyond the intervention of the Osun State Government, Erin-Osun has independently initiated at least two peace meetings with Ilobu. The first, held at the INEC office in Ilobu, was described as tense, with hired thugs allegedly attempting to provoke violence. Erin-Osun representatives, guided by the wisdom of their leaders, managed to return home safely. Subsequent reconciliation attempts, including another meeting arranged by Erin-Osun, were reportedly thwarted by Ilobu, prompting the state government to establish a 100-member reconciliation committee comprising 25 representatives from each affected community.
The committee includes key stakeholders such as the Ataoja of Osogbo, a former Chief Judge of Osun State, the State Surveyor General, the Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, the NUJ Chairman, and heads of security agencies.
Despite these extensive efforts, Erin-Osun leaders claim that Ilobu has continued to undermine peace efforts. They further allege that Ilobu extended its conflict with Ifon-Osun to Erin-Osun, targeting the latter simply for sheltering displaced persons. Eyewitnesses report that over 150 armed militias, allegedly hired by Ilobu, launched attacks on Erin-Osun, indiscriminately shooting, burning houses, and destroying properties.
“Now that significant harm has been inflicted, it is only reasonable for them to allow peace to be restored,” the statement read. However, Erin-Osun leaders lament that instead of accepting responsibility, Ilobu has launched a media campaign to distort facts and mislead the public.
The statement urged media organizations to uphold journalistic integrity by verifying reports and ensuring balanced coverage. “It is disheartening to see false and damaging narratives being aired due to misinformation spread by those who do not desire peace,” the statement added.
Erin-Osun leaders called for accountability, stressing that true reconciliation can only be achieved through truth, fairness, and justice. “For every action taken, there will be a reckoning,” they warned, reaffirming their commitment to lasting peace in Osun State.
