Boundary Disputes: Osun, Oyo in Peace Moves, Order  Dep Govs to Engage Parties

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Governors Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and 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 included 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.

But the federal agency has yet to release its report despite several follow-ups by the stakeholders, creating a vacuum being exploited by violent groups.

In the last one month, several villages in Iwo local government have been attacked while the Lagelu groups allegedly also attacked its men and settlements.

Governor Adeleke at the meeting emphasised 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.”