The Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation in the State of Osun, Mrs Funke Egbemode, on Sunday, visited Eesa’s compound Ijabe, to condole with the family of a farmer, Ridwan, who was reportedly killed on his farm on Wednesday, January 13, by a herdsman.
Egbemode, who expressed condolence and sincere sympathy on behalf of the Governor and the government of the State of Osun, said: “Governor Adegboyega Oyetola sends his heartfelt sympathy and expresses sadness at the death of Mr Ridwan. To him, this is not just about the loss of a farmer, but of one of the diligent sons of the State who till the time of his unfortunate death found dignity in labour.
“I assure you on behalf of His Excellency that everything is being done to ensure that there is no repeat of this sad development, and that this community especially does not become a flash point for this kind of situation.
“Security agents have been mobilized to keep a close watch on the farm, and they are already doing that.
“The Governor is monitoring the investigation. We only wish to appeal to you to allow peace to reign. Governor Oyetola wants us to maintain peace and resist any temptation to resort to situation that will lead to any form of reprisal”, Egbemode stated.
In his response, the Eesa of Ijabe, Chief Samuel Akanbi Iwaninkan, who received the delegation from the government on behalf of the community, appreciated the visit, adding that the community had already seen the Governor’s intervention since the tragic event happened.
He added that: “We are not interest in a long-drawn out legal battle over this matter. We appeal to the government to facilitate the release of the corpse of our son to us for burial. He was a practising Muslim and he should have been buried , but we have been unable to accord him that honour because of the situation surrounding his death.
“We are also appealing to the government for support for the family the deceased left behind, ” Chief Iwaninkan explained.
The Commissioner was accompanied by the Chairman of Odo-Otin North LCDA, Hon. Akeem Seriki, Hon. Tayo Adegoke, Mr Idowu Olanrewaju Lawal and other party faithfuls.