No fewer than two persons have lost their lives in the ongoing communal clash that broke out between the Owake and Ebo communities in Akoko South West local government area of Ondo State.
LEADERSHIP gathered that several others were injured, while properties, including homes and community structures were destroyed during the incident.
It was learnt that the violence escalated on Sunday night when suspected hoodlums from the neighbouring Ebo community allegedly attacked Oka-Odo.
Among the properties destroyed was a house belonging to Mr. Omorinbola Francis, also known as Ekoro, which was completely burnt down.
Residents who sustained injuries were rushed to the newly commissioned Federal Medical Centre in Iwaro-Oka for treatment.
A source who do not want his name mentioned told LEADERSHIP that the Palace of the Asin of Oka-Odo and a nearby event hall were also targeted and completely destroyed in the clash.
The source stated, “Oka-Odo Community was attacked late Sunday night by suspected hoodlums from Ebo. Both the palace and the event hall have been destroyed, and several houses were set ablaze. Sadly, Mr. Omorinbola Francis’s house was among those burned to the ground, and attempts to control the fire were unsuccessful.”
Earlier, members of Owake Community had reportedly gone to install signposts along Ikun Road, following an Appeal Court judgment that confirmed their ownership of the disputed land.
On their way back, however, they were ambushed by suspected thugs who launched a violent attack, leaving many injured.
Confirming the incident, Ondo Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Funmilayo Odunlami- Omisanyaq urged all parties involved to sheathe their sword, noting that violence and property destruction would only result in stagnation and underdevelopment.
Odunlami-Omisanya in a statement issued on behalf of the Commissioner of Police in the state, said the clash started on January 12th, 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 mobilised and invaded the Ebo community, leading to incidents of arson.
“The conflict led to casualties on both sides leading to death of 2 persons (names and identities unknown), while the injured, are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
The PPRO said 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.
The CP 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.
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