The Acting Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, has urged traditional rulers to support the administration’s efforts in maintaining peace across the state in response to escalating boundary disputes in Oyo Zone.
Speaking at an emergency meeting on Thursday, Lawal emphasized that the government will not tolerate violence and called for collaboration between royal fathers and local government officials to address ongoing issues.
The meeting, held at the Governor’s office, aimed to resolve disputes between Oyo East and Oyo West Local Governments.
Lawal highlighted the importance of peace, noting recent challenges, including a school closure that lasted 19 years.
He warned royal fathers against promoting violence and stressed that their role is not to foster conflict but to support the government’s peacekeeping efforts.
He said: “On behalf of His Excellency, Seyi Makinde, I appeal to our royal fathers to allow peace to reign in Oyo zone. This is not the time for communal clashes when government is still addressing the issue of banditry, kidnapping, mining, among others.
If you want to execute judgement, you just have to reflect on the consequences. As government, we will deal decisively with anyone that may want to promote violence in Oyo state”.
Lawal also addressed local government chairmen, urging them to foster dialogue and avoid violent resolutions.
He underscored that communal clashes are unacceptable, especially as the government deals with other serious issues such as banditry and kidnapping.
He urged any parties with claims to submit their reports to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters within two weeks for review.
Hon. Ademola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, explained that the emergency meeting was convened due to reports of destruction and trouble in Afijio, Oyo West, and Oyo East local governments, particularly in Keseni village, Ago Oyo, and Iseke village.
The meeting was attended by key state officials, including the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperative, Mr. Adeniyi Adebisi; the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade; and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, Police, among others.
Adeleke Maria
