Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has warned that traditional rulers who fail to maintain peace in their communities will face removal from office.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Olawale Rasheed, on Monday, the governor indicated that this action would apply to traditional rulers in Ifon and Ilobu/Erin-Osun communities in Orolu and Irepodun Local Government Areas if they fail to prevent further violence and manage the existing crises effectively.
The governor’s warning followed reports of plans by unidentified groups in the conflict-prone areas to incite more violence.
“During the Sallah celebrations, I received reports of fresh plans to reignite conflict in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun,” Governor Adeleke said.
He assured that security agencies had ramped up their vigilance to prevent any attacks and were expediting the interrogation of key figures involved in the unrest.
“The peace agreements being signed in these towns must not be taken lightly. Leaders will be held accountable for any failure in maintaining peace,” he stated.
Governor Adeleke also clarified that the decision to ease the curfew was made on humanitarian grounds to reduce the suffering of innocent people, but warned that any attempt to misuse the relaxed curfew for violent purposes would result in the re-imposition of a 24-hour curfew.
“I will not hesitate to remove any traditional ruler if violence breaks out again in their area. This is a serious matter, and the traditional leaders must ensure peace is maintained,” he added.
He concluded with a strong statement, saying, “Enough is enough. I will take whatever steps necessary to ensure peace returns.”
