Ola Akinwunmi
In a decisive effort to halt the tensions over the longstanding boundary dispute between Osun and Oyo states, the Oyo State Government intervened on Tuesday, calling for an immediate end to the hostile public exchanges. The intervention comes as part of broader measures to foster a climate conducive to constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution.
Addressing the media in Ibadan, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, expressed deep concern over the persistent blame game that has dominated the public narrative. “The media feed on combustible materials such as this. Unending hostile public statements merely add fuel to the fire and dettracts from the substantial progress our governors are making,” Oyelade stated. He emphasized that sustained, mature discussions between the two state governments are critical to resolving what he described as a “protracted land dispute.”
Both Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State are reported to be working closely with the National Boundary Commission through their respective representatives. Oyelade reiterated that neither administration views the dispute as insurmountable. “We believe that the issue is not intractable, and traditional institutions should not be an obstacle in our pursuit of peace and clarity regarding our shared borders,” he added.
The Commissioner’s remarks come amid growing public concern, as the boundary dispute had begun overshadowing other developmental agendas critical to both states. Analysts suggest that lowering the temperature in public discussions is not only necessary for a quick and amicable resolution but also pivotal in restoring investor and citizen confidence in regional governance.
While the details of the disputed land have not been fully disclosed, local sources affirm that both governments are committed to a solution that respects historical boundaries and adheres to modern legal frameworks.
The cooperative stance taken by Governors Makinde and Adeleke indicates that behind-the-scenes negotiations are actively seeking a compromise that upholds the interests of both states.
As the talks proceed under the auspices of the National Boundary Commission, the public is advised to await further updates while both sides maintain their commitment to diplomacy over discord. The Oyo State Government’s firm stance against inflammatory public rhetoric sets a hopeful precedent for other regions grappling with similar issues.
For now, the call is clear: step back from the public spat, engage in informed discussions, and allow the process of negotiated settlement to take its course.