Alaafin of Oyo Issues Stern Warning to Land Grabbers Invading Communities
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade I, has issued a forceful warning to land grabbers and property speculators, demanding they immediately halt violent encroachments on communities in Oyo State. The monarch declared that those found culpable will face the full weight of the law, as he condemned rising attacks on residents in about 12 villages within Oyo West Local Government Area.
Affected Communities and Disputed Land
The affected communities include Itosi Yaya, Tella Omooba, Jowe, Idi-Iyalode, Bada, Ladindin, Janna, Ojutaye, Iporin Kajola, Ajibade, Laagbe, and Ariwinyo. The disputed land stretches from Odo-Itosi to Odo-Ogun, with incidents allegedly perpetrated by suspected land grabbers using violence, threats, and intimidation to dispossess rightful landowners.
In a statement released by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin described land as a critical asset for economic growth and warned against attempts by unscrupulous elements to reap where they did not sow. Those who engage in forceful takeover of land or demand illegal fees from property owners should desist or be ready to face the consequences, the monarch emphasized.
Legal Consequences and Property Protection Law
Oba Owoade reminded offenders that the Oyo State Real Properties Protection Law of 2016 remains in full force, warning that violators risk up to 15 years imprisonment, while accomplices will also face prosecution. He noted that increasing demand for land in Oyo has led to a surge in illegal activities, including:
- Fraudulent sales of property
- Violent encroachments on legitimate land
- Dispossession of rightful owners
- Undermined investor confidence
- Disrupted peace in affected communities
These activities have not only harmed local residents but also created an environment of insecurity that deters investment and development.
Establishment of Land Committee
To address this menace, the Alaafin announced that he has constituted a Land Committee comprising professionals and respected elders to restore order and ensure compliance with the law. According to him, the committee is mandated to:
- Investigate cases of land fraud and encroachment
- Examine unauthorized land transactions
- Sanitize land administration in the metropolis
- Ensure that land ownership and transactions are governed by law, not by force
The objective is to ensure that land ownership and transactions are governed by law, not by force, he stated, reiterating that his administration places a premium on the protection of lives and property.
Call for Vigilance and Ongoing Efforts
The monarch vowed that decisive steps will be taken to sustain peace and security across the kingdom, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. He also advised the public to disregard individuals or groups falsely parading themselves as rightful owners of disputed lands.
The Alaafin assured that efforts are ongoing to address the longstanding challenges associated with land disputes and restore confidence among residents and investors in Oyo communities. This initiative aims to foster a stable environment where economic growth can thrive without the threat of illegal land grabs.
