Traditional rulers, government representatives and stakeholders in Ijesa land, Osun State, have asserted that the increasing spate of killings in Ilesa by suspected cultists is a matter of serious concern.

They made the observation during a meeting held to discuss the security situation in Ijesaland owing to the cult clash that claimed four lives within three days in the area.

DAILY POST had reported that two suspected cultists were killed at a beer parlour at Imo, Ilesa on Sunday and two others were gunned down on Tuesday afternoon at Sabo, Irojo Junction.

Briefing newsmen shortly after the meeting held at the palace of the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, the Elegboro of Ijebujesa, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye said the meeting resolved to embrace community policing to curb the menace.

“The synergy between the security agencies and the community is important to nip the recurrent maiming and killings among the youths. This will also make Ijesaland a peace haven for both the residents and visitors,” he said.

Also speaking, the Ogboni of Ipole, Oba Kehinde Oyeleye expressed displeasure over the recent shootings which led to four persons being killed in some parts of the ancient city.

“The stakeholders would do everything possible to restore peace in Ijesaland and make the resolutions of the meeting come to fruition.

“There is a high proliferation of firearms in the society.

”There is a need for legislation to control firearms proliferation. We are going to liaise with the legislators and make sure that possession of illegal arms is not only prohibited, but offenders are made to face the consequences,” Oba Oyeleye stressed.

Speaking on behalf of other government functionaries, the Secretary, Ilesa West Central, Oladele Familusi assured the security agencies of the state government’s support to address the security issue.

He urged the warring groups to sheath their swords and give peace a chance in the interest of all.

Also, the youths in Ijesa land have condemned the incessant killings in Ilesa town.

In a statement signed by the Coordinator, Ilesa East Nigerian Youth Congress, Sunday Amure, the youths lamented that the town which used to be the most peaceful was now turning to a land of ceaseless killing of youths.

The youths called on Governor Ademola Adeleke, Owa Obokun, Oba Gabriel Aromolaran, political leaders and security agencies to intervene.

According to the statement, “The incessant killings has scared the residents and this has made them consider relocation from the city if the menace does not ceases.

“Economic activities have been affected as no one wants to come and trade in an insecure atmosphere.

“Many Ijesa sons and daughters are not inspired to come home, because of the spate of insecurity and incessant killings in Ilesa.”

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