Osogbo, March 24, 2025—Osun State’s Commissioner for Information, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, vehemently denied accusations.
He emphasized that impostor soldiers were not deployed to Ilobu.
Moreover, these accusations emerged as tensions escalated among the Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun communities, intensifying regional conflict.
In a press release, Alimi dismissed the claims as “baseless and malicious,” urging warring groups to prioritize dialogue over violence.
The conflict, which has claimed lives and destroyed property, sparked widespread outrage. Alimi lamented the tragedy as “avoidable,” stressing shared familial ties and intermarriages among the communities. “We are brothers and sisters,” he declared. “Peace, not bloodshed, must define us.” His appeal followed allegations by Ilobu Descendant Union spokesperson Tairu Babatunde, who accused Alimi of orchestrating attacks using fake soldiers.
Alimi refuted the claims, labeling them “dangerous lies.” Challenging Babatunde to provide evidence, he stated, “I never ordered security forces to harm anyone.” Meanwhile, he revealed his Erin Osun home was attacked Friday night by unidentified gunmen. Security forces intervened swiftly, rescuing his family. “No impostors were involved,” he clarified, praising officers for their professionalism.
Despite not hailing from Ilobu, Alimi highlighted his decades-long ties to the town. He taught at Ilobu Grammar School for ten years, mentoring students who now thrive in diverse fields. As a public figure, he facilitated jobs for locals in civil defense, local government, and other sectors. He also endorsed Ilobu indigene Honorable Nasiru Olateju’s 2019 political bid. “It’s shocking to see my integrity questioned after years of service,” he said, accusing critics of exploiting the crisis for personal gain.
Demanding a public apology from Babatunde, Alimi warned of legal action if none materializes. “These falsehoods endanger my family,” he asserted, distancing the Ilobu Descendant Union from Babatunde’s remarks. “Recklessness must have consequences,” he added.
Addressing claims of biased curfew enforcement, Alimi clarified that Governor-led security meetings determined the restrictions. Representatives from the Army, Police, and DSS agreed to initially limit curfews to Ifon and Ilobu, where violence first erupted. “No personal agenda influenced this decision,” he emphasized.
Appealing for unity, Alimi urged communities to reject division and rebuild trust. “The destruction is heartbreaking,” he said. “Our shared future depends on reconciliation.” The state government has intensified peace efforts, deploying security teams to prevent further chaos.
As tensions linger, residents await tangible resolutions. For now, Alimi’s message rings clear: collaboration, not conflict, remains the only path forward.
