The Ojaekomo Family of Sapata Village in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State has raised an alarm over a land dispute involving a 60-hectare excision granted by the Lagos State Government in 2015. The Centre for Accountability and Social Well-Being (CASW) is calling on the Inspector-General of Police, the Lagos State Government, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to intervene and restore security around the property after personnel were withdrawn.
Background of the Disputed Land
According to CASW, the Ojaekomo people have lived in the Sapata Ojuokun area for generations. On November 13, 2015, the Lagos State Government granted the community an excision of 60 hectares of wetland under Survey Plan No. LS/D/LA/3834. A separate disagreement with the Ojomu Family later brought the matter before the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Following deliberations that included representatives of the Ojomu Family, the House of Assembly passed a resolution on August 3, 2023, referenced LSHA/LM/C/50/VOL.II/93, to divide the 60 hectares between the two families. Under that resolution, 32.42 hectares (54 per cent) went to the Ojomu Royal Family, while 27.65 hectares (46 per cent) were allocated to the Ojaekomo Family.
Legal Battle and Security Concerns
CASW said parts of the dispute had reached the courts. A consent judgment that had previously been obtained was later set aside after an application by persons who were not original parties to the case. That decision is currently before the Court of Appeal, and the group said it would not seek to argue the merits of the appeal through the press.
The group also raised concern about the withdrawal of police and NSCDC officers who had been deployed around the property. It called on the relevant authorities to clarify why the personnel were pulled back and urged a review of the security situation to prevent any breakdown of order.
Appeal for Lawful Resolution
CASW said the Ojaekomo Family was willing to engage with ongoing legal processes, comply with court orders, and share relevant documents with government and security agencies. It urged both the Ojaekomo and Ojomu families, as well as their supporters, to avoid self-help and pursue any outstanding claims through lawful channels while the courts and relevant agencies continue to handle the matter.
Spokespersons Mariam Adekoya and Bolaji Arokoyo said at a press briefing that the matter had grown beyond a private disagreement between families and required intervention from relevant authorities.
