The Oyo State Government has appealed to warring youth groups in Ojoo, Akinyele Local Government Area, to sheathe their swords and remain calm as it begins investigation into the cause of the violent unrest that reportedly led to the loss of lives.
The Deputy Governor of the state, Barrister Bayo Lawal, made the appeal during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected area, where he warned that the government would not tolerate any form of conflict capable of triggering tribal tension or disrupting the peace of the state.
Lawal said security operatives deployed had taken control of the situation to prevent further escalation, assuring residents that the government would conduct a thorough inquiry to determine the immediate and remote causes of the crisis.
He added that anyone or group found culpable would face the full weight of the law, stressing that criminal acts should not be given ethnic or tribal coloration.
A youth representative in the community appealed to the government to engage leaders of the affected communities to broker a lasting truce, expressing concern that failure to achieve peace could result in possible reprisal attacks.
The Deputy Governor, who directed security agencies to maintain a strong presence in the area, expressed optimism that the situation would be brought under control and normalcy restored.
Reports indicate that tension erupted in Ojoo area of Akinyele Local Government, Ibadan, following a violent clash on Tuesday evening between some scavengers, popularly known as “Bowler Boys”, and traders in the area.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that two persons reportedly lost their lives during the incident.
Credit David Bello
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