Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has relaxed the curfew imposed on the troubled communities of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun, following signs of returning peace and in consideration of students preparing for national examinations.
The curfew, which was previously set at 17 hours, will now run from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily, started yesterday.
This adjustment, according to the state Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, is in response to security reports indicating a gradual de-escalation of hostilities in the affected areas.
“The relaxation of the curfew is sequel to the different security reports reaching the governor that the much-expected ceasefire is taking centre stage on a daily basis,” Alimi said in a statement.
Governor Adeleke also cited the need to ensure that students are not hindered from participating in the upcoming West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), National Examination Council (NECO) exams, and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), which begin on April 24.
“In the same vein, the new trend in the time frame of the curfew will also allow our children who want to write WAEC, NECO, and JAMB examinations to be able to do so without any form of hindrance, as we cannot allow their future to be mortgaged,” Adeleke stated.
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The three communities have been engulfed in violent clashes that resulted in the loss of lives and the destruction of property, prompting the state government to impose the initial curfew.
Despite the easing of restrictions, the governor emphasized that security personnel will maintain round-the-clock surveillance to prevent a resurgence of violence.
“I am still directing that the joint security team, comprising the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, should continue to maintain their usual 24-hour surveillance to ensure zero tolerance on any act of lawlessness,” he warned.
Adeleke expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers and residents of the three communities for their efforts in restoring peace, while urging continued cooperation.
He also charged the 100-member crisis resolution committee on Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun to expedite their efforts in resolving the protracted conflict.
“My administration and the entire people of Osun State will not settle for less from the committee in giving a leeway towards ensuring a lasting resolution to the age-long communal disputes,” Adeleke said.
He appealed to all sons and daughters of the three communities, both at home and abroad, to support the government’s peace efforts.
“It is only in an atmosphere of peace and unity that the much-sought growth and development can be achieved in the three communities of Ifon, Ilobu and Erin Osun, as well as the entire state,” the governor added.
