The Osun State Government has appealed for calm between Orile Owu and Araromi Owu communities in Ayedaade Local Government Council Area following a clash over a chieftaincy issue.
Governor Ademola Adeleke has subsequently directed that security operatives be immediately stationed in the affected areas to protect both communities and maintain law and order.
Arogidigba Global Journal learnt that peace and order broke down between the two communities on Tuesday, leading to the loss of properties worth millions of naira.
The governor’s directive was contained in a statement issued by Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi.
According to the statement: “Governor Ademola Adeleke has called for calm between Orile Owu and Araromi Owu communities in Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State.
“He also announced that the chieftaincy selection process, which caused the communal clash, be henceforth suspended.
“Governor Ademola Adeleke has also directed the Special Adviser on Security, Mr Ojo, to mobilise security operatives to the towns to maintain law and order, and that anyone caught not abiding by the law is to be arrested and prosecuted appropriately.
“The government has the duty of protecting the lives and properties of the people of Araromi Owu and Orile Owu in Ayedaade Local Government, hence directing that any act or movement contrary to peace and which may lead to a breakdown of law and order in the communities is not acceptable.
“The government particularly commiserates with the families of those who lost their properties in the communal clash and added that the rift will be duly investigated.
“The government reiterates that peace is germane in every environment and assures Osun residents of security while also calling for the support of residents and urging everyone to embrace peace.”