ABEOKUTA— Residents of Ikangba Community in the Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State have appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun for urgent intervention over an ongoing land crisis that threatens the peace and safety of the area.
Speaking at a press conference, representatives of the community raised concerns over the continuous harassment, maiming, and sporadic shooting on their ancestral land by alleged land grabbers, despite directives from key security agencies.
The community claimed that the perpetrators have enjoyed the backing of traditional authorities, specifically naming the Dagburewe of Idowa, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adefuwape, as contributing to the persistence of the dispute.
According to the community, the situation previously escalated when two Ikangba indigenes were arrested and detained at the Department of State Services (DSS) office in Abeokuta. They were subsequently released after presenting documentary evidence supporting the community’s land claims.
Following a review of the matter, the State Director of the DSS and the Ogun State Commissioner of Police both separately warned those involved to desist from actions capable of breaching public peace.
However, community leaders reported that the alleged land grabbers ignored the directives and resumed illegal activities immediately after leaving security meetings.
”The people of Ikangba should not be made refugees on their own ancestral land.
“No individual, no matter how highly connected, should have the power to deploy security personnel or private agents to intimidate citizens, seize land, or threaten lives.”
The community confirmed that petitions have been submitted to the Ogun State Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force, the Police, and the DSS, alongside a formal appeal to the state governor.
They urged Governor Abiodun to order an impartial investigation into the dispute, protect residents from unlawful dispossession, and restrain parties using security operatives or private agents to intimidate the area. They also called on the leadership of the Police and the DSS to ensure their personnel are not used as instruments in private land matters.
Reiterating their commitment to peaceful resolution, the community urged all factions to allow competent authorities and the rule of law to determine the legitimate ownership of the land.
