Residents of Ikangba Community in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State have urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to intervene urgently in a protracted land dispute they say threatens lives and property.
The community made the call on Monday at a press conference held at the NUJ Hall, Iwe-Iroyin, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta. Community representatives accused certain individuals of seeking to seize what they described as ancestral land through intimidation and the alleged deployment of security personnel.
Prince Oluleye Olufemi, Secretary of Ikangba Community, who spoke on behalf of the residents, called on the governor to act swiftly to stop the matter from escalating into violence.
Oluleye recalled that two community members had earlier been arrested and detained at the Department of State Services (DSS) office in Abeokuta in connection with the dispute. He said the two were released after the community presented documentary evidence supporting its claim to the land.
According to the community, the DSS, after hearing both sides and reviewing the circumstances, cautioned the parties against any actions that could disturb the peace. Residents alleged, however, that activities on the disputed land continued despite the warning.
They further stated that the Ogun State Commissioner of Police had invited the parties, listened to their claims, and similarly cautioned those described as alleged land grabbers against further action on the property.
Despite these interventions, the community claimed that harassment, sporadic shootings and alleged attacks around the land had persisted, generating anxiety among residents.
The residents also expressed concern over the alleged involvement of the Idowa traditional institution, particularly the Dagburewe of Idowa, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adefuwape, saying this had complicated efforts at resolution.
Ikangba people stressed that their appeal was not intended to prejudge any individual or institution. They insisted that ownership and status of the disputed property should be decided through lawful processes.
They therefore called on Governor Abiodun to order a comprehensive and impartial investigation and to ensure adequate protection for all parties pending the outcome. The community also urged the government to prevent the use of security agencies or private individuals as tools of intimidation in land matters.
It specifically called on the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force to remain neutral and not allow their personnel to be used to advance private interests. Residents appealed to all parties to exercise restraint and allow relevant authorities to determine ownership in accordance with the law.
They further urged the Ogun State Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force, the police, the DSS and other agencies to intervene promptly to prevent further escalation and safeguard lives and property.
The community said it had already approached relevant authorities on the matter. Its decision to address the media, it added, was intended to draw public attention and prompt urgent government action before the dispute leads to further loss of lives.