The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has launched a strong accusation against the state government, alleging that Governor Ademola Adeleke is deliberately "inviting crisis" in the ancient town of Igbajo. This follows the governor's declaration of a 24-hour curfew in the community following the death of its traditional ruler, Oba Philip Adegboyega Famodun III.
Curfew Imposed During Funeral Rites Sparks Outrage
The opposition party's fury stems from the timing of the curfew order, which coincides with the mandatory seven-day traditional rites being performed for the late monarch. The rites commenced on Sunday, December 1, 2025. The APC, speaking through its Director of Publicity, Mogaji Kola Olabisi, described the government's action as "antithetical to the peaceful atmosphere of the community" and a sign of "pathological hatred" for the deceased Oba, who was the immediate-past state chairman of the APC.
The late Oba Famodun was installed as the Owa of Igbajo in 2022 by the former Governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola. However, his reign was contested, and he was removed via an executive order by the Adeleke administration shortly after it assumed office. The monarch challenged this decision in court and was reinstated by the Osun State High Court on January 31, 2025, a ruling that stood until his passing.
APC Warns of Unrest, Calls for Police Intervention
Drawing parallels with past conflicts in the state, the APC has raised an alarm over potential violence. The party's spokesperson recalled the communal strife between Ilobu, Ifon-Osun, and Erin-Osun, blaming it on the current administration's "administrative inefficiency." The APC fears a similar crisis could erupt in Igbajo, a community already in mourning.
In a statement, the party chair, Sooko Tajudeen Adewoyin, asserted that the state government is complicit in promoting crisis in Igbajo. The APC has now called on the Inspector-General of Police to take charge of the situation to prevent any breakdown of law and order. "We want to state unequivocally that the Adeleke government should be held accountable for any crisis that may erupt in Igbajo," Mogaji Kola Olabisi stated emphatically.
Demand for Immediate Reversal of Curfew
The primary demand from the opposition is clear: an immediate revocation of the curfew. The APC argues that the restriction is unnecessary and disrespectful, especially since the court had validated the late Oba's title. They insist that the monarch deserves a peaceful and dignified funeral process.
The party has demanded an immediate reversal of the 24-hour curfew declaration, stating it is in the interest of peace and tranquillity for the grieving town. This political clash adds another layer of tension in Osun State, coming on the heels of Governor Adeleke's recent resignation from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) due to internal crises.
