Osun: Police wade in masquerade crisis between warring communities
By Jeleel Olawale
The Osun State Police Command has intervened to resolve the recent masquerade crisis that erupted between Apomu and Ikoyi communities.
This was disclosed by the Command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday in Osogbo.
The statement revealed that during the peace and security meeting which brought together leaders and representatives from both communities Monday, the Osun Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Umar Abba, urged both parties to settle their differences and work towards harmonious coexistence.
Those present at the peace meeting include Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Rural Water and Environmental Sanitation Agency, Lanre Odelade, chairmen of the two local government councils in the area, High Chiefs and leaders of the OPC from both communities.
CP Umar Abba also admonished both communities to shun violence in resolving their grievances, noting that communication and dialogue were keys to resolving conflict and building harmonious relationship.
“I want you to address your differences and work towards a harmonious coexistence.
“The two communities should shun any act of violence in resolving their grievance. Communication and dialogue are keys to resolving conflict and building harmonious relationship.”
It was gathered that one person died and houses were razed after the Egungun masquerade festival led to a clash between two communities – Ikoyi and Apomu in Isokan LGA of the state.
It was learnt that on Sunday, June 23, 2024, the masquerade festival which began the previous Thursday, June 20, in the two neighbouring communities on a very good note went awry and led to a brawl.
Also, it was learnt that some masqueraders who are also members of the Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, from Ikoyi, invaded Oja Oba area of Apomu during the Egungun festival.
Meanwhile, in their separate responses, the representatives from both communities appreciated CP Umar Abba and the Police officers serving in their communities for their prompt response in resolving the crisis.
They also promised to allow peace to reign and to continue to live in harmony.
The statement revealed that representatives of both communities were made to sign a peace accord after the meeting.
