Police Commissioner warns against clashes in Osun

In an effort to put an end to the land dispute between Iwaro and Asipa communities in Ife North Local Government Area, the Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, has stepped into resolve the protracted crisis, urging both sides to embrace peace.

The CP stated this during the visitation to both lands, warned strict action against anyone who fuels future violence.

He said, “As policemen and all conventional security, this can’t be done by us alone, we need the help of you traditional rulers. We have to let down our ego. I am here to hear from the two of you and take it to the government. I don’t want any problem.

The Oluwaro of Iwaro, Oba Dr Emmanuel Ayoola, lamented that his people had endured repeated attacks since 2017 despite a white paper on land ownership that was already approved by the court.

He alleged that groups from Asipa had stormed his town, destroyed his palace, attacked farmers, and looted harvests.

“The government shouldn’t show favouritism or bias. They should be able to deal with whoever is found guilty of any offence,” Oba Ayoola appealed.

However, the Alasipa of Asipa, Oba Babawale Mufutau Oyehan, pledged his community’s support for peace, commending the police for their intervention and assuring cooperation with security agencies to maintain order.

He stated that land should not be the basis for endless hostility, noting that both towns share historical and cultural ties.

“We met ourselves here, and there will be nobody who can claim this land. I don’t see any reason why we should prioritise materialism because in the end, it’s all about eternity. Leaders will one day give account before the Creator who gave us life,” the monarch stated.

He gave assurances that peace would henceforth prevail, describing Iwaro and Asipa as neighbours bound together by common heritage.