Traditional leaders in Ibadan, including Obas and Baales, have strongly condemned the ongoing land grabbing activities in the state, allegedly perpetrated by individuals masquerading as government officials. These individuals are accused of using state government vehicles to forcibly take over farmlands, family properties, and ancestral villages.
The affected communities in Ona Ara Local Government Area are experiencing heightened tension as land grabbers, backed by law enforcement, continue to harass and intimidate landowners. The grabbed land is subsequently sold to estate developers, despite the existence of the Real Properties Protection Law, 2016, which prohibits such activities and prescribes severe penalties [1).
Oba Nureni Adegbenro, Alajia of Ajia, assured the victims that justice would be served and their ancestors would intervene to resolve the issue. He emphasized that traditional rulers in the local government are not involved in land grabbing and are committed to protecting their people.
Victims Share Their Ordeals
- Asimiyu Onaolapo from Gbeleyi village reported that 850 acres of land were seized from 21 families, with land grabbers claiming ancestral ownership.
- Bashiru Olajide from Ogunbunmi village shared similar experiences and appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde and the Inspector-General of Police for intervention.
- Ahmed Oyebamiji from Kupalo Ogunleye family alleged that land grabbers used state government vehicles and guns to intimidate villagers.
The victims stressed that the land grabbers’ actions have resulted in physical, emotional, and economic harm to the communities. They urged the authorities to take immediate action to stop these illegal activities and protect their rights.
The Oyo State Government has previously taken steps to address land grabbing and illegal mining issues ¹ ². However, the persistence of these problems highlights the need for sustained efforts to ensure justice and security for the affected communities.
