By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State police boss, CP Ibrahim Gotan, has called on the feuding communities of Erin-Osun, Ilobu, and Ifon-Osun to embrace peace and unity, saying only a peaceful environment can pave the way for meaningful development.
He made the appeal on Tuesday during an on-the-spot assessment tour of the affected communities in Irepodun and Orolu Local Government Areas, aimed at gathering first-hand information on the lingering land dispute that has caused the loss of lives and destruction of properties worth billions of naira.
Addressing stakeholders during separate visits to the three communities, the police boss urged them to put aside past grievances, forgive one another, and work together for the greater good of their people.
He said, “Since I assumed office, I’ve heard about the bitter history and violence between these communities. I want to assure you that my administration is one of peace, and I am committed to ensuring lasting peace across all parts of Osun State.
“There can be no development without peace. You are all descendants of Oduduwa—brothers and sisters. Let us not allow past conflicts to define our future. Forgive and forget, and let us work together to build a better Nigeria.”
He emphasized that security agencies cannot do the job alone and urged community members to provide useful information that can help in identifying and apprehending troublemakers, especially those who use crises as opportunities to loot and sow further discord.
Gotan also disclosed plans to deploy more personnel to the area, stating that reinforcements would soon arrive to strengthen patrol efforts and restore full calm.
“We are expecting more manpower soon to support the current security structure in the area. But we need your cooperation. Peace is a collective responsibility,” he added.
Responding to the CP’s visit, the Olufon of Ifon, Oba Peter Akinyooye, lauded the Commissioner’s initiative and assured him of the community’s commitment to peace.
“Ifon is known for peace. Our forefathers taught us to live in harmony with others. That is why various ethnic groups — Fulanis, Igbos, and others —coexist here peacefully. So, it is disheartening to be in conflict with our Yoruba brothers, who share our language and culture,” the monarch said.
Also, the President of Erin-Osun Progressive Union, Chief Kayode Olawale, who spoke on behalf of the Elerin of Erin-Osun, Oba Yusuf Kolawole Omoloye Oyagbodun II, pledged the community’s cooperation with both the government and the peace committee handling the dispute.
“We are appealing for timely and comprehensive action on the peace committee’s report. Meanwhile, we have consistently urged our youths not to take laws into their own hands, despite past provocations.”
Also speaking, Barr. Adegoke Olusola, representing the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan, praised the police for their proactive steps but raised concerns about indiscriminate arrests allegedly based on frivolous petitions.
“We urge the CP to educate his officers on proper investigation procedures before effecting arrests. Too often, innocent people are picked up and later dumped in prison without proper inquiry.”
The visit marks a significant step by the Osun State Police Command in building trust, promoting dialogue, and seeking a lasting resolution to one of the state’s most protracted communal conflicts.
