In a significant development towards peace restoration, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved a relaxation of the curfew in the three communities of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun, which had been under strict night-time restrictions due to violent conflicts.
The directive, communicated through a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Mr. Kolapo Alimi, reduces the curfew hours from 6pm-6am to 9pm-5am starting Sunday, May 25, 2025. The governor’s decision comes in response to the “gradual return to total peace” in these areas, enabling residents to celebrate the forthcoming Eid El Kabir festival without undue constraints.
Governor Adeleke, who is also the Chief Security Officer of the state, expressed optimism about the peace efforts, saying, “It gladdens my heart to direct that the hitherto 6pm-6am curfew will now be between 9pm to 5am.” He praised local leaders and stakeholders for their role in fostering harmony and encouraged continued cooperation.
Security agencies including the Army, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence have been ordered to maintain 24-hour vigilance to prevent any resurgence of violence. The governor also issued a stern warning to traditional rulers, stating, “Any of the traditional rulers whose subject is caught or found being a clog in the wheel of achieving total peace would be made to face the wrath of the law.”
The conflict, which erupted in March due to boundary disputes among the communities, led to casualties and widespread destruction, prompting the initial imposition of the curfew. The easing reflects the effectiveness of government interventions and community efforts to restore stability.
Governor Adeleke concluded by wishing all residents, Muslim and non-Muslim alike, a happy Eid El Kabir festival.
