Sam Philip
Police have confirmed two persons dead and many injured in a communal clash involving three communities in Oka-Akoko in Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The clash was caused by some youths from Ebo community who allegedly attacked some youths from Oka Odo who went on game hunting on Sunday.
It was revealed that the Ebo youths thought the Oka Odo youths who were on game hunting were from Owake another community, who they have unresolved quarrel with.
This led to serious clash between the youths of the communities during which two persons were killed and property destroyed.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, in a statement signed by the Spokesperson to the state Police Command, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, a Chief Superintendent of Police, on Monday, said two persons died in the clash.
He called on the youth of the three communities, Oka Odo, Ebo, and Owake communities in Iwaro to sheath their swords.
The CP cautioned that “violence and property destruction would only result in stagnation and underdevelopment.”
The statement reads in parts: “The clash started on January 12, 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 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.
“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 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.”