In a bid to restore peace to the embattled communities of Ifon and Ilobu, the Osun State government has implemented a curfew, effective from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.

The decision, announced by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, is a strategic measure aimed at quelling the ongoing conflict between the two communities.

The curfew, which took effect on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, is intended to create a conducive environment for lasting peace. Commissioner Alimi emphasized the necessity of the restriction in ensuring the safety of residents and preventing further escalation of violence.

To address the root causes of the conflict, the state government has also revealed plans to establish a joint task force comprising stakeholders from Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun. This task force is expected to include traditional chiefs from the feuding communities and will work collaboratively to find a sustainable resolution to the tensions.

In a show of commitment to maintaining order, a combined force of security personnel, including the Army, Police, and Civil Defence, has been deployed to the affected areas. The presence of these security agencies is aimed at not only enforcing the curfew but also preventing any potential flare-ups of violence.

Commissioner Alimi issued a stern warning to individuals or groups attempting to disrupt the peace, stating that anyone found instigating or engaging in violence would face legal consequences.