Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state and Engr Seyi Makinde of Oyo state have waded into the incessant border clashes between Lagelu and Iwo local governments of both states, launching peace moves ahead of the release of the report of the National Boundary Commission.
The two governors met over the dispute during the week and resolved on immediate actions which include a directive to the Deputy Governors of both states to meet and then visit the areas involved in the dispute.
The resolution which was reached at the Ibadan residence of Governor Makinde emphasised the need for peaceful engagement and resolution of all outstanding issues, charging the Deputy Governors to meet leaders of Lagelu and Iwo communities involved in the confrontation.
The Deputy Governors are also to look into other related boundary disputes such as the recurring one between Orolu local government and Ogbomoso areas of the two states.
Both governors called for restraints and cessation of reported raids into each other’s territories by aggrieved parties, insisting on due process and rule of law in conflict resolution.
The National Boundary Commission had conducted mediation visitation to the disputed areas to collate data from documentary and oral evidence to determine the exact boundary of the two states.
The federal agency has however not released its report despite several follow up by the stakeholders, creating a vacuum being exploited by violated groups.
In the last one month, several villages in Iwo local government have been attacked while the Lagelu groups also alleged attacks on its men and settlements.
Governor Adeleke at the meeting emphasized the historical linkage between the two states, declaring that “our people are one and we must peacefully resolve any outstanding issues.
“I commend my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde on this proactive decision. Our deputy governors will take up the matter as a matter of urgency”, Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying.
Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.
