Akeredolu threatens to suspend two monarchs over communal clashes

Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, the Ondo State Governor has threatened to suspend the two monarchs in Ikare-Akoko, headquarters of Akoko Northeast Local Government Area over indiscriminate clashes between the two communities.

Oba Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin II, the Owa-Ale of Iyometa, Ikare and the Olukare of Ikare, Oba Akadiri Saliu Momoh have been at loggerheads over control of the town, where three curfews have been imposed on the town within eight months.

Several properties have been destroyed and lives lost in clashes between their loyalists.

Last week, Governor Akeredolu imposed a 24-hour curfew on the town after another clash led to killings and destruction of houses and vehicles.

Mrs Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, the Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, while speaking to newsmen after the State Executive Council meeting, announced the decision of the Governor to banish the two monarchs if another clash occurs.

The Commissioner said that the State Government has relaxed the 24- hour curfew imposed on Ikare- Akoko, from 6pm to 6am, while warning the two Obas to comport themselves in line with the State Government decisions, adding that anything to the contrary might lead to their banishment.

Olateju added that a five-member committee has also been set up to look into the crisis in Ikare and recommend resolution on the Okoja issue as well as the Oloko intercession.

“This press briefing is about the crisis in Ikare Akoko. The crisis in Ikare has resulted in stringent measures being taken by government. But in like manner, the curfew has been relaxed a little bit and it will be in effect from 6am to 6pm.

“The Council resolved that any further crisis or escalation in Ikare will result in banishment of the Olukare and Owa-Ale. The Council also decided to look into the history of Okoja that is the bone of contention between the two Obas.

“The Oloko intercession issue will also be looked into. From now on, the Council has resolved that no one should parade himself as the Olokoja of Okoja, either the one installed by Owo Ale and Olukare. All minor chiefs installed by the Olokojas should stop parading themselves as chiefs henceforth. Whoever does so will be arrested and will face consequences,” she said.

Members of the committee are Bashorun Sehinde as Chairman; Chief Jamiu Afolabi Ekungba as member; Dr Tunji Abayomi as member; Mrs Oreoluwa Agbayewa member and Mr. Joseph Dele Adesanmi as Secretary.