Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Igbajo town, following violent clashes among residents over the passage rites of the late Oba Adegboyega Famodun, triggering security concerns in the community.
The curfew, which took immediate effect, was announced in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, after reports of breakdown of law and order arising from disagreements over whether the late monarch’s traditional rites should be performed.
According to findings, tension escalated after the death of Oba Adegboyega Famodun, a former state party chairman who was installed as the Owa of Igbajo during the previous administration, but whose reign became a subject of prolonged legal and political dispute. While a court reportedly reinstated him earlier this year, the ruling remains controversial and is understood to be under appeal.
Following his passing, some traditionalists and residents moved to carry out customary passage rites — including restrictions on commercial activities such as market closure — in line with traditional practice. However, opposing groups, allegedly loyal to another claimant to the Owa stool, resisted the rites and attempted to keep the town running as normal. The disagreement soon degenerated into open confrontations among rival factions.
The clashes prompted swift intervention by the state government, with Governor Adeleke declaring a total lockdown of the town to forestall further violence and protect lives and property. Security agencies — including the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) — have been deployed to enforce the curfew and restore calm.
The governor condemned the unrest, stressing that his administration would not tolerate any form of lawlessness or actions capable of plunging the state into avoidable violence, irrespective of the issues involved. He urged residents of Igbajo to remain indoors, observe the curfew strictly and allow security agencies to carry out their duties.
Observers note that the crisis highlights the lingering tensions surrounding traditional rulership disputes in parts of Osun State, especially during periods of transition. Authorities say the curfew will remain in place until peace is fully restored, while efforts are expected to be made to dialogue with stakeholders and prevent a recurrence of violence.
Residents have been advised to cooperate with security operatives, as the government reassures the public that the measure is temporary and aimed solely at safeguarding lives, maintaining order and preserving communal harmony.