The Baale of Elere-Adubi in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State, Chief Olakunle Alabi, and a former councillor in the area, Hon. George Omilani, have appealed to the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola, and former president Olusegun Obadanjo, the Balogun of Owu Kingdom, to intervene in the growing land dispute involving communities around Elere and Onigbedu.
The Baale and Omilani spoke separately after a closed-door meeting with the Olowu in his Abeokuta palace, warning that rising tension over land ownership could threaten peace if not urgently addressed.
Omilani, a former Supervisor for Health in Ewekoro Local Government and councillor for the Elere-Onigbedu Ward, said the dispute stems from claims by a group alleging the existence of a settlement called Gbagba Nla Igbo Olomi between Elere and Onigbedu.
He insisted that no such recognised town exists.
“The communities under Elere-Onigbedu Ward are well-known—Morekete, Koboro, Abule-Owu, Keinta, Ajipa Tutu, Elere-Adubi, Onigbedu, Babalawo, Kajola, Aga and Atola. There is no community beyond these,” Omilani said.
“Some people now claim there is a settlement called Gbagba Nla Igbo Olomi and are attempting to install a Baale there.
“But according to our records and what our forefathers told us, the area referred to as Gbagba Nla is deep in the forest and was historically farmland, not a formal settlement.”
He explained that the claims have created growing controversy over land boundaries, stressing that the community’s existing land documents remain valid.
“We want clarity and peace. Our elders have assured us that the matter will be properly addressed,” he added.
The Baale of Elere-Adubi, Chief Olakunle Alabi, expressed concern over what he described as increasing pressure and disputes affecting farmers and residents.
He appealed to traditional authorities in Owu to step in before the situation escalates.
“The hardship is becoming too much for my people. Farmers are afraid to go to their farms, and fishermen are also affected,” he said.
Omilani “We are calling on our father, the Olowu of Owu, and on the Balogun of Owu, Oba Olubayo Obasanjo, to help mediate. We do not want conflict in our land.”
Chief Alabi earlier, said the community had already sent letters to the Olowu seeking intervention and was awaiting further directives.
“We want peace. We are appealing to our people to remain calm and respect the crown. Whatever resolutions our leaders take, we will abide by them,” he added.
He further appealed to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, whom he described as a respected elder of Owu extraction, to help ensure dialogue among all parties.
“This issue has affected livelihoods, and we believe the involvement of our elders will prevent the situation from getting out of hand,” he said.
Residents who spoke with PLATFORM TIMES said they hoped the intervention of the Olowu and other traditional institutions would bring clarity, restore confidence among farmers and avert further tension in the area.
Traditional leaders are expected to meet with representatives of the affected communities in the coming days as efforts toward a peaceful resolution continue.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
