Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has relaxed the 17-hour curfew earlier imposed on the conflict-ridden communities of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun. The curfew will now run from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. daily, starting Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
This decision, according to a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, is in view of the upcoming West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) scheduled for April 24, and other national examinations such as NECO and JAMB. The move is aimed at ensuring that students are not hindered in any way during this critical academic period.
The three communities were recently engulfed in violent communal clashes that resulted in loss of lives and the destruction of several properties. Governor Adeleke said the curfew adjustment was informed by security reports indicating a gradual return to peace in the area.
Alimi noted, “The relaxation of the curfew is sequel to security reports reaching the governor that the much-expected ceasefire is gaining ground daily.” He added that the governor remains committed to finding a lasting resolution to the crisis.
Governor Adeleke, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace, commended the traditional rulers and residents of the affected communities for their efforts in de-escalating tensions. He urged them to continue supporting peace initiatives to consolidate the progress already made.
He stated, “The new curfew timing will allow our children who want to write WAEC, NECO, and JAMB examinations to do so without any form of hindrance. We cannot allow their future to be mortgaged.”
Despite the curfew relaxation, the governor directed the joint security task force—comprising the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps—to continue their 24-hour surveillance to ensure law and order.
He warned that any person or group found fomenting or supporting unrest would face the full weight of the law.
Additionally, Governor Adeleke urged the 100-member crisis resolution committee on the Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun clashes to expedite their work in providing a permanent solution to the long-standing disputes.
He appealed to all indigenes—both at home and in the diaspora—to support the government’s peace efforts, stressing that only in an atmosphere of peace and unity can the desired growth and development be achieved in the three communities and across Osun State.
