By Taofikat Adedigba
A conflict erupted between two neighboring villages in Osun State on Tuesday during the Egungun (masquerade) celebration, which ultimately resulted in a bloody riot and the death of an indigene whose body is yet to be identified. These two neighboring villages are Apomu and Ikoyi, both located within Isokan Local Government Area. It was reported that the masquerade celebration began on Thursday, June 20th, 2024, in the two communities on a very positive note until Sunday when tensions escalated, leading to a crisis. A resident of Apomu, Hammed Abidoye, told the correspondent that a small misunderstanding occurred between the masquerade of Apomu, associated with the Odua People’s Congress (OPC), and the one from Ikoyi, which was owned by the faction of Akerele, on Sunday.
An indigene of Ikoyi, who identified herself as Aminat, informed us that during the argument, many things were damaged; houses, properties, and shops were destroyed during the riot. The spokesman of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) of Osun State Command, Kehinde Adeleke, confirmed the crisis. She stated, “We learned that one person was killed, but it hasn’t been confirmed yet.” She also mentioned that the command had deployed tactical teams to prevent a breakdown of law, order, and principles. These groups have been instructed to ensure the proper protection of properties, assets, and the security of lives. She assured that the team provided the necessary materials needed to effectively address the issue and ensure that laws and rules are enforced. The public relations officer, SP Yemisi Opalola, stated that the command retained mobile police officers in the communities, and stability was restored on Tuesday morning. Mrs. Yemisi Opalola, nevertheless, declared that the command has not confirmed any deceased.