Osun communal clash: Police arrest three arsonists, as Adeleke visits crisis communities
By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
The Osun State Police Command has apprehended three individuals in connection with alleged acts of murder, arson, and the deliberate destruction of lives and property.
Police spokesperson SP Akeem Adeoye confirmed the arrests in a statement, revealing that a Dane gun and other dangerous weapons were recovered from the suspects.
According to Adeoye, long-standing tensions between Ifon and Ilobu communities resurfaced in the early hours of 21 March 2025, quickly escalating into violence that spread to Erin-Osun, resulting in casualties, arson, and widespread destruction.
He stated, “The Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Umar Abba, has ordered the deployment of officers to the affected areas to restore peace, uphold the law, and safeguard lives and property.”
He further assured the public that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, would take all necessary measures to prevent further bloodshed and enforce the 24-hour curfew imposed by the state governor, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke.
“So far, three suspects have been arrested for violating the curfew while in possession of a Dane gun. A thorough investigation will be carried out, and those found culpable will be prosecuted accordingly.
“The command is also closely monitoring the situation to identify and apprehend all perpetrators and their sponsors, ensuring they face the full force of the law,” Adeoye added.
Meanwhile, Governor Adeleke visited the affected communities to assess the extent of the damage and urged security forces to bring those responsible to justice.
Expressing concern over the level of destruction, the governor disclosed that he had instructed security agencies to track down and prosecute all individuals behind the crisis.
He stated, “We have assessed the situation, and as you can see, security personnel have been deployed effectively. The curfew has significantly helped in restoring order in Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin-Osun.
“I must commend the swift response of security agencies. Following our emergency meeting, they immediately took control of the situation, ensuring calm was restored. Osun is a peaceful state, and I appreciate their efforts in maintaining order.
“This conflict has persisted for too long. When I assumed office, I advised that constant clashes over land disputes would hinder development. Such violence discourages investment and creates fear beyond the affected communities, giving the impression that the entire state is unsafe.”
The governor emphasised that his administration has put measures in place to ensure lasting peace.
“I have directed that all culprits be brought to justice. I will not tolerate lawlessness any longer—this has gone too far. My people are being killed, homes are being destroyed, and that is completely unacceptable,” he declared
