Akeredolu’s CPS said the decision to impose the curfew was made at the State Security Council meeting headed by the governor.
By Jeffrey Agbo
Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Ikare-Akoko, headquarters of Akoko Northeast Local Government Area, over a fracas during a New Year carnival.
There was pandemonium in the town on Tuesday when a New Year carnival organised by the youths was disrupted by sporadic gunshots.
The incident is believed to be connected to the supremacy battle between the Owa-Ale and the Olukare of Ikare, the two traditional rulers in the town.
In August 2022, the state government elevated the Owa-Ale to the status of a first-class traditional ruler, which effectively left the town with two first-class kings.
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However, a statement on Thursday in Akure by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, said the decision to impose the curfew was made at the State Security Council meeting headed by Akeredolu.
“This follows the escalated violent clash in the town since Tuesday, which has continued unabated, in spite of the meeting held between government and the Olukare of Ikare, Oba Akadiri Momoh and Owa Ale of Iyometa, Oba Adeleke Adegbite, to control their subjects.
“Security agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the order, just as investigations are already on to unravel the real cause(s) of the violent clash.
“For emphasis, Ikare Akoko has been closed down for any unathourised human movement and activity until further notice,” the statement said.