Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke
The Asiwaju of Kajola, Chief Ayobami Agboola, has appealed to the traditional rulers of the feuding Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun communities to cease hostilities, hold meaningful discussions among themselves and settle whatever may be their differences amicably.
Also, a cleric, Alhaji Sanusi Amidu, and a monarch the Baale of Kajola, Chief Yinusa Kabiru have preached peace among all the communities in Osun State as they regretted the disunity caused by the crisis that rocked the three communities.
They all spoke at a Ramadan lecture at Kajola, Ede, where they appealed passionately to all Osun State residents to work together in maintaining peace and ensuring development.
Stressing the importance of unity being essential for peaceful coexistence, Agboola said, “Unity is the foundation of a thriving society. If we truly embrace it, we can live peacefully without conflicts or divisions.”
“Look at what is happening in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin-Osun. If they genuinely wish for peace, they will come together, have meaningful discussions, and settle their differences amicably and diplomatically, rather than resorting to violence.”
Agboola, who was the chairman of the occasion, called on the traditional rulers in the disputing communities to take decisive steps toward reconciliation.
“The three kings must prioritize unity. They should come together, find common ground, and resolve their disputes so that innocent lives are not lost. Bloodshed will only deepen divisions,” Agboola stated.
He also urged Muslims to uphold the spirit of Ramadan beyond the fasting period, emphasizing the need for continued faith and devotion.
“Ramadan teaches us patience, peace, and devotion to God. But these values should not end when the month does. We must remain committed to unity and continue to serve and worship God beyond Ramadan,” he added.
In his sermon, Amidu said, “When there is no unity, peace cannot reign. Everybody will begin to see each other as enemies, and this will only lead to crisis.
“What is happening in Ifon, Erin-Osun, and Ilobu should serve as a lesson. Instead of division, neighboring communities should work together for peace to reign.”
Specifically, the cleric urged Kajola residents to embrace patience, tolerance, and mutual understanding to prevent similar crises from occurring in their community.
He reminded Muslims that faith should not be seasonal, urging them to continue observing Salat and reciting the Quran beyond the Ramadan season.
On his own, Chief Kabiru advised the people of all communities in the state to be patient and fair in their dealings with one another.
He said, “When issues arise in the community, we should not allow emotions to dictate our response. Instead, we must take a step back, weigh the facts carefully, and seek peaceful resolutions.
“A divided community cannot prosper, and as leaders, we have a duty to promote understanding rather than division.”
Also, he urged the state’s residents to uphold respect for one another, emphasizing that patience and dialogue are crucial in addressing disputes.
In the monarch’s words, “Let us remember that no disagreement is beyond resolution if we approach it with wisdom. We must avoid bitterness and resentment, as these only create deeper divisions.”
