Violent clashes have erupted once again in Ifon and Ilobu communities of Osun State on Monday, leading to the reported deaths of three individuals amid renewed hostilities over land disputes.

The incidents occurred in the Orolu and Irepodun Local Councils of the state.

While the state police command confirmed the occurrence of a violent clash in the communities, details regarding casualties were not disclosed.

The Otun Jagun of Ilobu, Chief Leke Ogunsola, spoke to the Nation, revealing that one person from Ilobu lost his life during the hostilities with Ifon natives.

He explained, “An Ilobu man was killed today (yesterday) when some natives of Ifon went to the farm of our people in Oyo State, especially at Ologele and Aganna. They later stormed the wooden gate area of Ilobu to fire gunshots, but police have been drafted to the area.”

In contrast, Prince Jide Akinyooye, the Secretary of Ifon-Orolu Progressives Union, claimed that natives of Ilobu invaded Ifon land under the directive of a local monarch with the aim to “sack our people from the land.” He added, “This resulted in a crisis. They shot and maimed our people. I have reported the matter to the police authority.”

The clash triggered tension in the community, prompting residents and shop owners to seek safety, leading to a stampede.

Responding to the situation, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, stated, Yemisi Opalola, “We have sent our squad to the local government areas. They were briefed before they left. We are working around the situation.”

Communal clashes previously erupted in these communities last October, resulting in numerous deaths and property losses.

Governor Ademola Adeleke had to declare a curfew in the two affected local government areas at that time.