Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reduced the curfew imposed on three conflict-affected communities from 17 hours to 12 hours. The curfew will now run from 7 pm to 7 am daily in Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun communities.
According to the state’s Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the decision was based on security reports indicating a gradual return of peace to the area.
The adjustment also aims to accommodate students preparing for upcoming national examinations, BusinessDay reports.
“The relaxation of the curfew is sequel to the different security reports reaching the governor that the much-expected ceasefire is taking centre stage on a daily basis,” Alimi stated.
The three communities recently experienced violent clashes that resulted in multiple deaths and property destruction. Despite the reduced curfew hours, Governor Adeleke has ordered security forces to maintain 24-hour surveillance in the affected areas.
The governor cited the upcoming West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) starting April 24 as a key factor in his decision, stating that the situation would not be allowed to disrupt students’ education.
“The new time frame of the curfew will also allow our children who want to write WAEC, NECO and JAMB Examinations to be able to do so without any form of hindrance, as we cannot allow their future to be mortgaged,” Adeleke explained.
The governor has also directed a 100-member crisis resolution committee to expedite their work toward finding a lasting solution to the conflict. He warned that anyone found disrupting peace would face legal consequences.
“It is only in an atmosphere of peace and unity that the much-sought growth and development can be achieved in the three communities of Ifon, Ilobu and Erin Osun as well as the entire state,” Adeleke concluded.
