One Feared Dead, Properties Destroyed in Ondo Communal Clash Over Land Dispute
A communal clash between the Owake and Ebo communities in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State on Sunday night has left one person feared dead and several others injured.
Reports indicate that during the violence, hoodlums destroyed the palace of the Asin of Oka-Odo in Iwaro-Oka, an event hall, and several residential buildings in the community.
A community member, speaking anonymously, attributed the conflict to unresolved land disputes and boundary disagreements. According to the source, the crisis escalated when members of the Owake community installed signposts on disputed lands along Ikun Road, following an Appeal Court judgment affirming their ownership. On their return, they were ambushed and attacked, leaving many injured. The injured victims were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre for treatment.
Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Funmilayo Odunlami, stated that police officers had been deployed to the area to restore order.
“The Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has called for peace amidst the clashes involving youths from Oka-Odo, Ebo, and Owake communities. He urged all parties to embrace dialogue, as violence only breeds stagnation and underdevelopment,” Odunlami said.
She explained that the clash began on January 12, 2025, after youths from Oka-Odo were reportedly attacked by youths from Ebo during a hunting expedition. The Ebo youths allegedly mistook them for individuals from Owake, with whom they had ongoing land disputes. Retaliation by Oka-Odo youths led to further violence, including arson and additional casualties.
So far, two persons have reportedly lost their lives, and the injured are receiving medical attention. A police team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), has been deployed to de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of residents.
The Police Commissioner also urged both communities to resolve their disputes peacefully and vowed that those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice.
Comments