A longstanding land dispute between the Ilobu and Ifon-Osun communities in Osun State reignited on Tuesday, leaving two people injured. Gunmen allegedly invaded the Odoje and Golden Gate areas of Ifon-Osun, resulting in gunshot wounds and displacement of residents.

The two neighboring communities—Ilobu, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government, and Ifon-Osun, the headquarters of Orolu Local Government—have been embroiled in land disputes for decades. Both sides have accused each other of instigating violence in the latest clash.

### Accusations and Reactions

Prince Jide Akinyooye, representing the Ifon-Orolu Progressive Union, claimed Ilobu initiated the attack early Tuesday morning.

“The Orolu Kingdom is deeply disturbed by the latest attack… This brazen disregard for human life and the directives of the Osun State Government and security agencies is unacceptable,” Akinyooye stated. He called on the government to provide more security and prevent further violence.

In response, Adegoke Ogunsola of the Olobu-in-Council accused Ifon-Osun of deploying mercenaries to carry out the attack.

“Gunmen from Ifon-Osun, mostly war mercenaries, invaded Ganga and Akinpororo, shooting heavily. Only courageous people stayed to defend their properties,” Ogunsola said. He commended security forces for their swift response and urged the government to restrain Ifon-Osun to prevent escalation.

### Call for Peace

Security operatives, including the Nigerian Army, Police, and Civil Defence, have been deployed to maintain order in the area. Both communities appealed to the Osun State Government for intervention to prevent further violence and loss of life