A communal clash between the Owake and Ebo communities in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State resulted in one feared dead, several houses burnt, and numerous injuries on Sunday night.
Reports indicate that during the violent conflict, the palace of the Asin of Oka-Odo, an event hall, and several residential buildings were destroyed by hoodlums. A community member, speaking anonymously, explained that the clash arose from unresolved land disputes and boundary issues.
“Oka-Odo Community was attacked by suspected hoodlums from the neighbouring Ebo community. As I speak, both the palace and the event hall have been completely destroyed, and several houses were set on fire,” the source reported.
Earlier that same day, members of the Owake Community had attempted to install signposts on lands along Ikun Road, following an Appeal Court judgment affirming their ownership of the disputed lands. However, they were ambushed by suspected thugs on their way back, resulting in many injuries. The injured were promptly taken to the newly commissioned Federal Medical Centre.
The Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the incident, stating that police have been deployed to maintain law and order.
“The Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has called for peace among the involved communities. He urged all parties to sheath their swords, as violence and property destruction will only lead to stagnation and underdevelopment,” Odunlami stated.
The clashes began on January 12, when youths from Oka-Odo went hunting and were allegedly attacked by youths from Ebo, who mistook them for individuals from Owake. In retaliation, the Oka-Odo youths mobilized and invaded the Ebo community, resulting in arson and casualties on both sides.
The police have deployed a team to restore peace and prevent further escalation, assuring residents that they will bring the perpetrators of violence to justice.
