Tension has gripped the Oja Baale area of Agbabu community in Ondo State following a violent outbreak that resulted in the destruction of properties worth millions of naira and left several residents injured.
The incident, which occurred on the 18th of this month, had led to widespread destruction estimated at over N100 million.
The crisis reportedly erupted after the installation of Mr. Augustine Folorunso, a native of Ondo town and a landowner with extensive holdings in the area, as the Oloja of the community by the Orunja of Odigbo Kingdom.
What began as a moment of celebration soon degenerated into unrest amid lingering tensions within the community.
According to eyewitness accounts, the newly installed Oloja had invited residents and associates to celebrate the occasion. However, the gathering was disrupted by violence, with conflicting reports over the immediate cause of the incident.
"Several shops and palm oil processing facilities were vandalised during the unrest, a mosque in the vicinity had its glass windows shattered.
Sources alleged that suspected Ikale indigenes were responsible for the attack, suggesting that the crisis may be linked to underlying disputes over leadership and land ownership in the area.
"Several individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries, with some receiving treatment at nearby health facilities.
The situation reportedly escalated when some aggrieved individuals resisted intervention by security agencies.
"Police officers were attacked and injured, while non-indigenes in the community, particularly religious leaders, were also threatened.
However, no casualty was recorded as at the time of filing this report.
Residents however expressed growing fear and uncertainty, with many families reportedly fleeing their homes due to ongoing threats and sporadic violence. Some have sought refuge in safer locations to avoid further attacks.
Community leaders have called on the Ondo State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene, urging a thorough investigation into the crisis and immediate steps to restore peace and prevent further escalation.
A security source confirmed the incident with our correspondent via phone call
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