- Asks Adeleke to lift curfew on Igbajo
By John Dike,Osogbo
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has accused the state government of taking actions capable of triggering unrest in Igbajo following the passage of the town’s traditional ruler, Oba Philip Adegboyega Famodun III, who joined his ancwstors four days ago.
A statement issued on Monday by the party’s spokesperson, Mogaji Kola Olabisi, alleged that the state government had shown “complicity” in developments that could disrupt the ongoing seven-day traditional rites being performed in honour of the departed monarch.
It also called on the Inspector-General of Police to intervene urgently to prevent any breakdown of law and order in the community, which is mourning its revered ruler.
APC chairman in the state, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, who signed the statement, criticised the Governor Ademola Adeleke administration for what the party described as “pathological hatred” toward the departed Oba Famodun, who was the immediate past chairman of the APC in the state.
The party faulted the government’s decision to impose a 24-hour curfew on Igbajo on Monday, insisting that such an action during the sacred rites was unnecessary and capable of provoking avoidable tension.
“It is disheartening that the Adeleke-led government could not hide its hatred for the deceased even in death,” the statement claimed, describing the curfew as “antithetical to the peaceful atmosphere of the community.”
The APC further recalled previous communal clashes in Ilobu, Ifon-Osun, and Erin-Osun, accusing the present administration of mishandling situations that later escalated into violence, loss of lives, and destruction of property.
The party also referenced the January 31, 2025 judgment of the Osun State High Court, which reinstated Oba Famodun as the substantive Owa of Igbajo after his installation was previously nullified by the state government through an executive order and a white paper.
According to the APC, the court verdict affirmed that the departed monarch remained the recognised ruler of Igbajo at the time of his passing, and therefore could not be denied his full traditional burial rites.
“How this development will not lead to crises in Igbajo remains within the administrative purview of the state government,” the statement added.
The opposition party urged the state government to immediately lift the 24-hour curfew “in the interest of peace and tranquility” and allow the community to complete the traditional rites without interference.
