Ilobu/Ifon-Osun Boundary dispute: IDU warns as another tension builds up

The Ilobu Asake Development Union (IDU) has appealed to the Osun State Government and the police to be wary of falsehood by the people of Ifon-Osun over the alleged ceding of Ifon-Osun lands.

It also warned against plans to truncate efforts at ensuring lasting peace in Irepodun and Orolu local government areas and cause friction between Osun and Oyo States.

The union while debunking the allegation through a statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Tairu Babatunde on Thursday, lambasted Ifon-Osun for referring to Oba Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan, the Olobu of Ilobu as a Baale.

The Ifon-Osun community, through a statement signed by Jide Akinrotoye, had raised concerns about the Ilobu community ceding its territory.

But the IDU says that the people of Ifon-Osun failed to provide substantial evidence or legal basis for this assertion.

“Their unintelligible claim that His Royal Highness, Oba Ashiru Olatoye Olaniyan II (JP) is of Baale status is laughable and complete falsehood.

“History is important in understanding the present, but a shallow and hollow appreciation of the past is dangerous for the present.

“Additionally, the accusation that the Olobu played a role in appointing traditional heads in border settlements is unfounded. The historical background of these settlements, including Idi-Iroko, Ologele, Bara Odunayo, and others, has roots in the indigenes of Ilobu, who have been granted permission by Aresaadu of Iresaadu through Aranyin of Iranyin in Oyo State.

“The press statement also alleged a conspiracy to cede border settlements to Oyo State, which the Ilobu community vehemently denies. The accusation lacks substance and aims to create disaffection between the Osun State Government and the people of Ilobu,” it stated.

IDU emphasised that the people of Ifon-Osun breached a peace agreement signed on October 6, 2023.

“They continue to sponsor violence, endangering the lives and properties of Ilobu indigenes in the border settlements.

“In conclusion, we appeal to the Government of Osun State and the police authorities to scrutinize the facts and not be swayed by false alarms.

“It is essential to ensure peace in Irepodun and Orolu Local Government Council Areas of Osun State without succumbing to misinformation,” the community advised.