Says 24 hours security surveillance still in force

Against the backdrop of gradual return of peace to the warring communities of Ilobu, Ifon and Erin-Osun, in both Irepodun and Ifon-Orolu local councils, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, yesterday, directed that the hitherto 17 hours curfew imposed by his administration on the communities be relaxed to 12 hours.

The relaxation of the curfew followed the security reports indicating that the much-expected ceasefire is taking effect as part of the measures to restore peace.

The directive was contained in a statement by the Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi.

According to the statement, the curfew should, beginning from Tuesday, commence from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. daily until further notice.

The statement quoted Adeleke to have said that “Now that peace is gaining the centre stage on a daily basis, it gladdens my heart as the Chief Security Officer of Osun State to announce the relaxation of the curfew earlier imposed on Ifon-Ilobu- Erin Osun communities from 17 hours to 12 hours daily with effect from today.

“As a governor, I am again reaffirming my commitment to do everything morally and officially possible at my executive disposal to bring the communal fracas in the three communities to an amicable end.

“So far, I am equally happy to say that the traditional rulers of the three communities and their subjects have been living up to the desired expectations in ensuring the gradual return to peace. This is good and heartwarming. I urge them to keep the tempo high in this regard

“In the same vein, the new trend, in the 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.”

“However, I am still directing that the joint security team, comprising the Army, Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) should continue to maintain their usual 24-hour surveillance to ensure zero-tolerance on any act of lawlessness.

“This is not without reiterating the need for all stakeholders to cooperate by embracing the much-sought peace in the three communities as anybody, group or community caught or found wanting in fomenting or aiding the crisis in one way or the other will be made to face the music in line with the dictates of the law of Nigeria, “the statement concluded.