Ifon-Ilobu Crisis: PEACEPRO Urges FG, Osun Govt To Address Land-related Conflicts Nationwide
The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has expressed deep concern over the recent outbreak of violence between Ifon in Orolu Local Government and Ilobu in Irepodun Local Government of Osun State, which has left no fewer than 30 residents shot, displaced many families — including women and children — and destroyed several homes and businesses.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, PeacePro described the tragic incident as a reminder of the urgent need for the federal and state governments to adopt a permanent and strategic resolution to land-related conflicts across Nigeria.
According to Hamzat, PeacePro’s State of Peace Report in 2021 documented that intra and inter-state border clashes have occurred or persisted in more than 20 states of the federation, with land-related disputes triggering violence in at least 13 states within a single month. He noted that the recurring crisis in Osun State reflects a systemic governance failure in managing land ownership and resolving boundary disagreements.
“The recurring crisis in Osun State is a direct consequence of the failure to enforce court rulings, including Supreme Court judgments on land disputes that date back to the 1980s,” Hamzat stated. “When communities perceive that the government is unable or unwilling to implement legal decisions, they often resort to self-help and violence. This is unacceptable and reflects a dangerous breakdown of trust in the state’s capacity to provide justice and maintain order.”
PeacePro outlined a five-point strategy for resolving the crisis and preventing further outbreaks of violence:
1. Strict Enforcement of Court Judgments: The government must demonstrate political will by executing all standing court rulings on land disputes, including those from the Supreme Court.
2. Comprehensive Land Governance Framework: A clear and legally binding framework for land ownership and boundary management should be developed to ensure that all communities understand their territorial rights.
3. Strengthening the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA): The BCDA should be adequately funded and empowered to address border-related disputes effectively and promote inter-community dialogue.
4. Community Engagement and Peacebuilding: Local peace committees involving traditional rulers, youth leaders, and other stakeholders should be established to foster dialogue and prevent further clashes.
5. Security and Early Warning Systems: Proactive security measures and conflict monitoring mechanisms should be put in place to anticipate and prevent violence before it escalates.
Hamzat stressed that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, fairness, and security. He urged the government to move beyond temporary interventions and adopt a permanent and sustainable resolution to land disputes to prevent further loss of lives and destruction of property.
“PeacePro remains committed to supporting peace initiatives across the country and will continue to work with all stakeholders to foster dialogue, promote understanding, and ensure that justice prevails,” Hamzat added.
The recent clash between Ifon and Ilobu communities is the latest in a series of violent land-related conflicts that have plagued Osun State and other parts of Nigeria, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive and lasting solution.