Tension has gripped Ojoo area of Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State following a violent confrontation involving Yoruba traders and Hausa residents, with the state government moving swiftly to prevent the incident from escalating into a wider ethnic crisis.
The unrest, which occurred on Wednesday, reportedly forced traders to shut their businesses while residents fled their homes amid fears of further attacks.
The crisis was said to have started after the alleged killing of a Yoruba tricycle mechanic in the area. According to eyewitness accounts, the mechanic was reportedly stabbed during an altercation involving suspected Hausa scrap collectors operating within the community.
The incident allegedly triggered anger among some residents, leading to reprisal attacks and a breakdown of peace in parts of Ojoo.
As tension spread, the busy Ojoo transport hub was thrown into panic, with shops, markets and other businesses hurriedly closing down. Motorists and commuters also avoided some routes in the area due to fears of possible escalation.
Several residents were reportedly forced to seek safety elsewhere, while videos circulating on social media showed deserted streets and an atmosphere of fear.
Although details of the incident remained unclear, the Oyo State Government confirmed that there was a disturbance in the area and moved to calm residents.
The Deputy Governor of the state, Barrister Bayo Lawal, who visited Ojoo for an on-the-spot assessment, appealed to youths and residents to remain calm and embrace peace.
Lawal condemned the violence and warned against attaching criminal acts to any ethnic group, stressing that criminals should not be given tribal identities.
"Criminals have no ethnic identity. We are committed to ensuring peace and stability in Ojoo and across Oyo State. Investigations are ongoing, and those found culpable will be prosecuted,” the Deputy Governor said.
He assured residents that the government would conduct a thorough investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the crisis, adding that anyone found responsible would face the law irrespective of their background.
The Deputy Governor also directed security agencies to maintain a strong presence in the community to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
He acknowledged reports of two casualties from the incident and assured that justice would be pursued.
Earlier, a youth representative in the community called on the government to engage leaders of the affected groups to prevent possible retaliation and ensure lasting peace.
Following the assessment visit, Lawal met with leaders of both Yoruba and Hausa communities, alongside local government officials and other stakeholders.
Community leaders, however, maintained that there was no ethnic conflict between the two groups, insisting that residents had continued to coexist peacefully before the incident.
The Oyo State Government reiterated its commitment to restoring normalcy in Ojoo and urged residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands while security agencies continue investigations.
Authorities have yet to release further details on arrests made or the full extent of casualties and property damage as efforts continue to restore calm to the area.
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