The traditional ruler of Ifetuntun community in Ife South Local Government Area of Osun State, His Royal Majesty Oba Taofeeq Osunmakinde, the Obawure of Ifetuntun, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, over alleged threats to destroy his community and the resurgence of violent clashes arising from a longstanding boundary dispute.
Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Akure, the Ondo State capital, Oba Osunmakinde appealed to the IGP and relevant government authorities to intervene decisively in the ongoing conflict between Ifetuntun and a neighboring community in Ijebu West Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The monarch raised concerns over growing insecurity in the area, attributing the unrest to unresolved border disputes over a 30-mile stretch of land known as Ifetuntun. He alleged that certain influential individuals were instigating chaos and threatening to raze the community.
"The situation is becoming increasingly dangerous," the Oba warned. "We have submitted petitions, with supporting evidence, to the office of the Inspector General of Police, as well as to the Osun State and Federal Governments. We are law-abiding citizens and cannot resort to self-help. We are seeking justice and immediate intervention to protect our people."
Oba Osunmakinde recounted that the crisis dates back to 2001 during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, when hostilities first broke out between settlers of Ifetuntun and neighboring Ijebu communities. He noted that the intervention of the Federal Government led to a border demarcation by the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation, which allowed for relative peace until recent developments.
He emphasized that Ifetuntun has existed peacefully long before 2010, with the throne’s recognition reinforcing a tradition of stability and order. However, he lamented that the community is now under siege by armed hoodlums allegedly operating with the backing of certain state officials.
"In 2016, the community suffered a major attack led by a forest guard from the Ministry of Natural Resources. Thugs were hired to burn down homes and properties worth over N2 billion. Several arrests were made, but the key suspects absconded. The case was eventually settled out of court through the intervention of the then Ooni of Ife and former Governor Rauf Aregbesola," he explained.
He further alleged that in recent times, a new wave of harassment has emerged. "Our people are being intimidated along the federal road that links Ife South in Osun to Ijebu West in Ogun. Hoodlums are mounting illegal checkpoints, extorting money from travelers and claiming to represent the state government," the monarch stated.
Providing historical context, Oba Osunmakinde said Ifetuntun began as a government-reserved area where he served as a traditional authority.
A chieftaincy inquiry conducted in Osun State between 2008 and 2009 recognized the town’s existence, culminating in his coronation in 2010 by the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade. His appointment was formally endorsed by then-Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who presented him with a certificate and staff of office.
Reiterating his appeal for urgent intervention, Oba Osunmakinde called on security agencies and the government to act swiftly to prevent further breakdown of law and order in the community.