ICYMI: ‘Two killed’, houses razed in Ondo communal clash

Two persons have been killed in a communal clash involving the Owake, Ebo, and Oka Odo communities in the Akoko south- west LGA of Ondo state.

The clash reportedly started on Sunday when youths from the Oka Odo community went hunting and were allegedly attacked by their counterparts from the Ebo community.

TheCable understands that youths from the Ebo community had mistaken those from Oka Odo for their rivals from the Owake community, with whom they had an unresolved land dispute.

The incident led to retaliatory attacks among the three communities.

When the attacks lasted, the palace of the Asin of Oka-Odo, an event hall and a residence belonging to one Omorinbola Francis, were reportedly set ablaze.

Residents who got injured during the attacks were taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Iwaro-Oka for treatment.

On Tuesday, the police command in Ondo said its operatives have arrested 32 persons in connection to the violent attacks in the communities.

Funmilayo Odunlami, Ondo police spokesperson, said the suspects are in custody as the investigation into the incident continues.

On Monday, Wilfred Afolabi, commissioner of police in Ondo, visited the three communities.

Afolabi urged members of the communities to embrace peace and shun violence.

“The clash started on January 12, when youths from Oka-Odo went on a hunting expedition and were allegedly attacked by youths from Ebo,” the CP said.

“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 mobilised and invaded the Ebo community, leading to incidents of arson.

“The conflict led to casualties on both sides and also led to the death of two persons, while the injured are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.”