The Assistant General Secretary of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone, Comrade Josiah Adeyemo Kayode has appealed for peaceful resolution of overdue recurrent communal clashes between the Ifon and Ilobu communities in Osun State.
The Students leader made the statement in a press release on March 22, 2025.
According to the statement, “The escalation of violence, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property, is deeply troubling.
“Such conflicts not only threaten the harmony of our communities but also disrupt the academic pursuits of students in the affected areas.
“We recall the devastating impact of past communal clashes, such as the Ife-Modakeke crisis, and we must strive to prevent a recurrence.
“We commend Governor Ademola Adeleke for imposing a curfew and initiating security operations to restore peace.
“However, we believe that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue.
“We urge the leaders and youths of both communities to embrace peaceful negotiations to resolve their differences.
“Furthermore, we call on the Osun State Government to expedite interventions and ensure that those responsible for inciting violence are held accountable.
“It is imperative that political interests do not jeopardize the peace and tranquility of our state.
“Osun has a rich history of peaceful coexistence, and we must all work diligently to uphold this legacy.
“We appeal to all stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and the student populace, to join hands in fostering an environment where peace and development can thrive.
“Let us prioritise the future of our youth and the progress of our state by choosing dialogue over conflict,” he concluded.
