Two persons on Sunday lost their lives in a clash among Oka Odo, Ebo and Owake communities in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State.
This was disclosed on Monday in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ondo State Command, Funmilayo Odunlami.
Odunlami said: “The clash started on January 12th, 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 mobilized 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.”
She said a police team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police has been deployed to the area to restore peace and prevent further escalation.
According to her, the Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has called for peace.
Odunlami said the police boss urged all parties involved to sheathe their sword, adding that violence and property destruction would only result in stagnation and underdevelopment.
“The CP urges 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,” she said.
