Tensions are rising between the residents of Ifon community in Orolu Local Council and Ilobu town in Irepodun Local Council of Osun State over alleged encroachment on a buffer zone declared by Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The two communities had previously clashed over a large expanse of land, resulting in the deaths of approximately 20 people and the destruction of farmlands and properties in October 2023 and early 2024. To quell the unrest, the Adeleke administration designated the disputed land as a buffer zone, prohibiting both communities from erecting structures or engaging in farming activities in the affected areas.

However, concerns are mounting that renewed hostilities may break out unless the state government intervenes. The Ifon-Orolu Progressive Union recently sent a letter to the state governor, copied to the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) for Zone 11, the Osun State Director of the Department of State Security (DSS), and others, accusing Ilobu community of violating the buffer zone directive.

The letter, dated January 7, 2025, was signed by Alhaji Mohammed Oyedeji, the national president, and Prince Jide Akinloye, the secretary of the Ifon-Orolu Progressive Union. It expressed deep concern over ongoing construction works in the buffer zone by Ilobu community, particularly in the Opapa and Igbo Imi-Esin areas. The union decried this as a clear disregard for the authority of the state government, warning of serious implications for law and order.

In response, the Otun Jagun of Ilobu, Chief Leke Ogunsola, denied any knowledge of the buffer zone. He maintained that the land in question, including the Opapa area, falls within Ilobu’s jurisdiction, citing a favorable court ruling that supports their claim. He suggested that Ifon-Orolu should bring valid court documents if they wished to pursue the matter further.

As the situation remains unresolved, it remains to be seen whether the state government will take the necessary actions to prevent further escalation of the conflict.