The increasing rate of killings in Ilesa by suspected cultists is a matter of serious concern to all the stakeholders.
This assertion was expressed by traditional rulers and government functionaries at a closed door meeting to discuss security situation in Ijesaland in regards of the cult clash that claimed four lives within three days in the area.
Briefing Journalists shortly after the meeting held at the palace of the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, the Elegboro of Ijebu-jesa, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye said the meeting resolved to embrace community policing to curb the menace.
Oba Agunsoye emphasized the need for synergy between the security agencies and the community to nip recurrent maiming and killings among the youths in the bud and make Ijesaland a peace haven for residents and visitors.
Also speaking the Ogboni of Ipole, Oba Kehinde Oyeleye expressed displeasure over the recent shooting spree that led four youths to their early graves in some parts of the ancient city.
Oba Oyeleye asserted that the stake holders would do everything possible to restore peace in Ijesaland and make the resolutions of the meeting come to fruition, blaming the incident on proliferation of firearms in the society.
“There is need for a 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, Mr Oladele Familusi affirmed the commitment of the state government to address the security issue .
He urged the warring groups to sheath their swords and give peace a chance in the interest of all.
In attendance were traditional rulers and chiefs including the Ogboni of Ilesa, High Chief Saka Fapounda, Oba Odo, High Chief Busuyi Gbadamosi , Youths, Representatives of the Nigeria Police, State Security Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Hunters and Amotekun.
It would be recalled that the peaceful city of ilesa was thrown into confusion on Sunday when some suspected cultists shot dead two suspected members of rival groups.
We are scratching the challenge on the surface.Youths frustrations is nation wide.l pity ourselves, Let us engaged our youths, Politicians must disarmed their operation front liners so as to reduce this instrument of killings.The sufferings is too much please let’s engaged them positively.