The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a suspect in connection with the killing of a farmer, Sikiru Onaolapo, who was reportedly shot on his farm in the Oke Ekutu area, a disputed settlement between Ilobu and Ifon-Orolu communities.
Tension escalated in Ilobu on Tuesday after the lifeless body of Onaolapo was brought to the entrance of the Olobu of Ilobu’s palace in a vehicle.
Videos circulating on social media captured distraught residents demanding immediate intervention from Governor Ademola Adeleke and security agencies to prevent reprisals.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Otun Jagun of Ilobu, Leke Ogunsola, alleged that Onaolapo was killed by a man from Ifon.
“Sikiru Onaolapo, who hailed from Olobu’s Compound in Ilobu, went to his farm at Oke Ekutu this morning and was shot dead. Eyewitnesses said the deceased identified one man from Ifon as his assailant before succumbing to his injuries,” Ogunsola said.
However, the Ifon-Orolu Progressives Union refuted the claim. Its Secretary, Jide Akinyooye, dismissed the allegation, insisting.
He added, “We urge a thorough investigation into this incident. What we know is that some individuals have been encroaching on areas designated as a buffer zone by the Osun State Government. The Olufon of Ifon had earlier instructed his subjects to stay clear of such areas, so no indigene of Ifon was involved.”
Speaking to The PUNCH, the Police Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola, disclosed that the command had intensified efforts to maintain peace in the area.
“We have deployed additional personnel, including tactical team operatives, to Ifon and Ilobu to forestall further violence. The Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abba, has been engaging both communities in meetings,” she said.
Opalola confirmed that one suspect is in police custody, though she declined to reveal the individual’s identity. She assured residents that investigations would uncover the truth and bring the culprits to justice.
“We are committed to ensuring justice is served and urge members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding as we continue our investigation,” she added.
