The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended two men in connection with the violent clashes that rocked the Eki/Oboto community in Ilaje Local Government Area, stemming from a protracted land dispute.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, identified the suspects as Ogunsemore Gbadebo and Michael Ogunsemore, alleging that they mobilized armed thugs to attack the community after losing a land ownership case at the Court of Appeal, Akure.
“Rather than accept the ruling, the duo allegedly resorted to self-help by recruiting armed thugs to unleash violence in the Eki/Oboto community,” the statement read.
According to the police, the invasion resulted in the displacement of locals, destruction of huts, burning of palm produce, and other valuables.
One resident, Jeremiah Okuntimehin, was also said to have been attacked with a machete during the mayhem.
The suspects have since been charged to court, while security operatives continue to hunt for others believed to have taken part in the violence.
Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, condemned the act, warning that the Command would not allow anyone to challenge court judgments through violence or disturb public peace.
He called on residents of Aboto and Eki/Oboto to remain law-abiding and assured them of strengthened security deployment in the area.
“Peace and dialogue remain the most sustainable ways of resolving disputes,” he stressed, cautioning against reprisals or further provocation.
