By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Amidst the renewed hostilities between Ifon-Osun and Ilobu communities in Osun State, former Governor and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged warring factions to lay down their arms and embrace peace.

The lingering communal clash, which erupted again on Friday, has led to destruction of property, loss of lives, and displacement of residents in Orolu and Irepodun Local Government Areas.

Oyetola, in a statement issued by his Media Office, expressed deep concern over the crisis, describing it as avoidable and detrimental to the state’s peace and development.

“This unfortunate situation is not only heartbreaking but also undermines the progress we have collectively worked hard to achieve in Osun. I strongly urge all parties involved to sheath their swords and adopt dialogue as the only viable means of resolving their grievances,” he stated.

The former governor extended his condolences to families of those who lost their lives and sympathised with residents who suffered property losses. He lamented the escalation of violence, questioning why traditional rulers and community leaders had not intervened to de-escalate tensions as had been done in the past.

“Peace is fundamental to human existence. It is always better to negotiate at the roundtable than to resort to violence in any circumstance,” he said.

Oyetola further emphasised the need for both communities to end hostilities permanently and foster unity, stressing that communal clashes yield no positive outcome.

“I want to stress that no dispute is worth the life of any Osun citizen. I, therefore, appeal to all parties to allow peace to reign. Traditional rulers, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders must intervene decisively to prevent further bloodshed and destruction,” he added.

While calling on security agencies to maintain neutrality and restore lasting peace, Oyetola urged both communities to uphold the spirit of brotherhood and peaceful coexistence.