Two Killed in Ondo Communal Clash

Fidelis David in Akure

A communal clash between the Owake and Ebo communities in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State has led to the death of two people.

THISDAY gathered yesterday that the latest attack occurred last Sunday, and a house belonging to Omorinbola Francis was set ablaze, while several injured residents were rushed to the newly inaugurated Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Iwaro-Oka for treatment.

A source, who preferred anonymity, revealed that the Palace of the Asin of Oka-Odo and an event hall were also destroyed during the clash.

He said: “Oka-Odo community was attacked last Sunday night by suspected hoodlums allegedly from the neighbouring Ebo community. As I speak, both the palace and the event hall have been completely destroyed, and several houses were set on fire. Sadly, a house belonging to Mr. Omorinbola Francis-also known as Ekoro- was burnt to the ground, and efforts to extinguish the flames proved futile.

“Earlier that same day, members of the Owake community had gone to install signposts on lands along Ikun Road, acting in line with an Appeal Court judgment that affirmed their ownership of the disputed lands.

“However, on their way back, members of the Owake community were ambushed by suspected thugs, who launched a violent attack, leaving many injured. The injured residents were promptly transported to the Federal Medical Centre in GRA for medical attention.”

While reacting, the state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, through the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, confirmed the development, describing it as clashes between the youths of Oka Odo, Ebo, and Owake communities in Iwaro.

The CP urged all parties involved to sheath their swords, as violence and property destruction would only result in stagnation and underdevelopment.

According to him, “The clash started on January 12, 2025, when youths from Oka Odo went on a hunting expedition and were allegedly attacked by youths from Ebo. The Ebo youths were said to have mistaken them for individuals from Owake, with whom they have an unresolved land dispute.

“In retaliation, Oka Odo youths mobilized and invaded the Ebo community, leading to incidents of arson. The conflict led to casualties on both sides leading to death of two persons (names and identities unknown), while the injured are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.”

The CP stressed that a police team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP Ops) has been deployed to the area to restore peace and prevent further escalation.

He further urged the communities to seek peaceful resolutions to their disputes to avoid further loss of lives and property while assuring residents that the police would ensure that the perpetrators of violence on both sides are brought to justice.