Maroc - VERACITY.COM.NG - A La Une - 18/Jan 15:30

Ondo communal clash: Olubaka condemns violence, urges peaceful resolution

The Olubaka and Paramount Ruler of Oka-Akoko, Oba (Dr.) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, OON, has condemned the recent communal clash in the area and urged the affected communities to embrace peace.Speaking in an interview with The Hope, Oba Adeleye expressed deep concern over the violent incident, which reportedly claimed lives despite several efforts to prevent it. The monarch revealed that numerous meetings were held with leaders of the Ebo and Owake communities to foster dialogue and avert conflict.“I strongly condemn this communal clash, especially given that we made concerted efforts through a series of meetings with both communities before this unfortunate incident occurred,” the royal father stated.He called on all parties to sheath their swords and prioritize peace for the sake of community harmony and development. Additionally, the Oba commended the state government and law enforcement agencies for their swift intervention in managing the situation and restoring calm."These meetings were convened in my palace, where I made concerted efforts to pacify all parties involved to ensure that peace would prevail. It is disheartening that despite these efforts, violence still erupted, leading to unnecessary loss and suffering.“In addition, I took the extra step to meet with stakeholders to mediate and appeal to both sides for restraint. "Unfortunately, these genuine and collective appeals for peace were ignored, and the tragic consequences are now evident for all to see. The disregard for our efforts reveals the need for stronger commitments to dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution among community members.“I must extend my gratitude to the State Government and the police for their prompt and effective intervention in de-escalating the situation. ”Their efforts prevented further loss of life and property, and I call on them to continue monitoring the situation to forestall a recurrence. I also urge the people of Ebo and Owake to embrace dialogue, reconciliation, and unity as a way forward.“It is crucial that we all work together to ensure this kind of incident does not happen again. Violence solves nothing; instead, it destroys relationships and hinders development in our communities.“I appreciate the police for their assiduous efforts because the Ondo State Commissioner of Police sent Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operation to the area and the Commissioner of Police came himself. The presence of the police doused the tension to the lowest ebb. “I assure everyone that the perpetrators of this heinous act will be identified and brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others. “Let us remember that peace is the foundation of progress, and it is only by working together in harmony that we can build a better future for all.”