Boundary disputes: Osun, Oyo Govs launch peace moves, engage warring parties
By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
The Governors of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, and Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, have intervened in the ongoing border clashes between the Lagelu and Iwo local governments of both states, initiating peace efforts ahead of the release of the National Boundary Commission’s report.
The two governors met earlier this week to discuss the dispute and agreed on immediate measures, which include directing the Deputy Governors of both states to meet with leaders of the affected communities and visit the areas involved in the conflict.
A statement issued by Osun Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale, noted that the resolution, reached at Governor Makinde’s residence in Ibadan, underlined the importance of peaceful dialogue and the resolution of all outstanding issues.
Olawale added that the Deputy Governors would also address other related border disputes, including the recurring conflict between Orolu Local Government and Ogbomoso areas, which also involves both states.
The governors have called for restraint, urging the cessation of reported attacks by aggrieved parties on each other’s territories, stressing the need for due process and the rule of law in resolving conflicts.
The National Boundary Commission had previously conducted a mediation visit to the disputed areas to collect data from both documentary and oral evidence in order to determine the exact boundaries between the two states. However, the commission has yet to release its findings, despite multiple follow-ups by stakeholders, leaving a gap that has been exploited by the affected groups.
Over the past month, several villages in Iwo Local Government have been attacked, while the Lagelu community has also reported incidents involving attacks on its people and settlements.
Governor Adeleke, in his statement, reaffirmed the historical ties between the two states, saying, “Our people are one, and we must peacefully resolve any outstanding issues.”
He also commended Governor Makinde for his proactive stance on the matter, stating, “I commend my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, on this proactive decision. Our deputy governors will take up the matter as a matter of urgency.”
