Osogbo, Osun State — Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Tuesday, announced the relaxation of the 17-hour curfew imposed on the crisis-ridden communities of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun, reducing it to 12 hours daily. The curfew will now run from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am, effective immediately.

Governor Adeleke cited the need to protect the academic futures of students preparing for critical national examinations such as WAEC, NECO, and JAMB, as a key reason for the adjustment.

Gradual Peace Restoring Confidence

The announcement follows weeks of unrest between the three neighboring communities, where violent clashes led to multiple fatalities and widespread destruction of homes and properties. However, recent security briefings indicate a “gradual return of peace,” prompting the government to ease the restrictions.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the governor expressed cautious optimism, saying the ceasefire appears to be “taking centre stage on a daily basis.”

Students’ Education Takes Priority

“We cannot allow their future to be mortgaged,” Adeleke said, emphasizing that the timing change is to ensure students’ unhindered participation in their final examinations.

“The new trend in the time frame of the curfew will allow our children who want to write WAEC, NECO and JAMB Examinations to do so without any form of hindrance,” the governor said, underscoring education as a non-negotiable priority for his administration.

Security Presence to Remain Tight

Despite the curfew adjustment, Governor Adeleke ordered the joint security task force — comprising the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps — to maintain round-the-clock surveillance in all three communities.

“Anyone or any group found guilty of aiding or instigating unrest will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.

Crisis Committee Charged to Deliver Lasting Solution

The governor also urged the 100-member crisis resolution committee set up to investigate and recommend lasting solutions to the communal clashes to expedite their work. He emphasized that the committee’s outcome must provide a “leeway toward a permanent peace agreement.”

A Call for Unity at Home and Abroad

Governor Adeleke appealed to all sons and daughters of Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun — both at home and in the diaspora — to join efforts in ending the conflict.

“It is only in an atmosphere of peace and unity that the much-sought growth and development can be achieved,” he said.

Traditional Leaders Applauded

The governor commended the traditional rulers of the affected communities and their subjects for their roles in de-escalating the situation and urged them to “sustain the gains already recorded.”

As the state cautiously moves toward stability, Adeleke’s administration remains firm in its stance: peace is non-negotiable, and justice will be enforced.