At least two people have been killed in a violent communal clash between indigenes of Owake and Ebo communities in the Akoko Southwest Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Reports indicate that the clash, which occurred over the weekend, resulted in the destruction of properties worth millions of naira. The violence was reportedly triggered by a dispute over land boundaries involving youths from both communities.
A source disclosed on Monday that the conflict escalated after a physical altercation broke out between some youths. “As I speak, both the palace of the Asin of Oka-Odo and an event hall have been completely destroyed, while several houses were set on fire. Tragically, a house belonging to Mr. Omorinbola Francis, also known as Ekoro, was burnt to the ground despite efforts to extinguish the flames,” the source said.
The source further revealed that the violence was provoked earlier when members of the Owake community installed signposts on disputed land along Ikun Road, following an Appeal Court judgment affirming their ownership. On their way back, they were reportedly ambushed by suspected thugs, leading to injuries and further escalation of the conflict.
Injured residents were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Iwaro-Oka for treatment.
Confirming the incident, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Wilfred Afolabi, stated that the clash began last week when Oka-Odo youths were allegedly attacked during a hunting expedition by Ebo youths, who mistook them for individuals from Owake. In retaliation, Oka-Odo youths reportedly invaded the Ebo community, resulting in arson and casualties.
“The conflict has left two people dead, although their identities are yet to be confirmed,” Afolabi said. He added that a police team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, had been deployed to restore peace and prevent further violence.
The Police Commissioner urged all parties to embrace peace, emphasizing that violence and destruction would only hinder progress in the affected communities.
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