A community, Iwoye in Yewa South Local Government of Ogun State, has raised alarm over alleged land grabbing, accusing an APC ward chairman, Mr. Yemi Edun Ogunleye, popularly known as Orenge, and others of unlawfully taking over community land.
Residents, including women, youths, and elders, alleged that parcels of land belonging to the community are being sold and claimed without the consent of rightful owners or the knowledge of traditional authorities.
They described the situation as a growing threat to peace, safety, and communal heritage.
Some community members who spoke to journalists said the disputed land, inherited from their forefathers, is being encroached upon by individuals allegedly led by Mr Edun.
“We are raising our voices because land belonging to our ancestors is being taken over without due process,” a resident said.
The monarch of the community, the Oniwoye of Iwoye Land, and HRM Oba Buhari Ololade Makinde, confirmed that steps have been taken to address the issue.
He disclosed that a formal petition has been submitted to the Ogun State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, calling for urgent intervention.
According to a copy of the petition obtained by our correspondent, the allegations include threat to life, malicious damage, forcible entry, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace against Edun and others.
The community, however, appeal to the Ogun State Government and relevant authorities, including security agencies and appropriate regulatory bodies, to urgently intervene in the matter to prevent further escalation.
They also called on all rightful agencies responsible for land administration and dispute resolution to thoroughly investigate the claims and ensure justice is served.
It would be recalled that the dispute had earlier triggered unrest in the area, with aggrieved residents taking to the streets to express their grievances, an action that led to the blockade of the Ilaro/Owode Yewa Road for several hours.
The community warned that rising tension over the matter could escalate if urgent action is not taken by relevant authorities to address their concerns and restore peace in the area.
When contacted for his reaction, Mr. Yemi Edun Ogunleye denied the allegations, insisting that the land in question belongs to his family and had been duly ratified by the then Kabiyesi of Ilaro, Oba Tella Adekambi.
