The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has handed over a suspected land grabber to the Department of State Services (DSS), signaling a renewed drive to tackle illegal land acquisition and related violence in the ancient city.
The suspect, whose identity was withheld, was arrested in connection with a long-standing land dispute between the Akoto and Ojofeitimi families in the Elebu area of Ibadan.
A statement from the Olubadan’s Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, said the feud had escalated despite repeated palace interventions aimed at restoring peace.
“The battle against land grabbing in Ibadan took a new dimension on Tuesday when the Olubadan handed over the suspect to the DSS,” Oloko said.
“This action underscores the palace’s commitment to peace and lawful ownership of property.”
The dispute began when both families approached the Olubadan seeking mediation over ownership of the land where members of the Ojofeitimi family currently reside along the ICAST axis of Elebu.
The Akoto family claimed part of the property, prompting the Olubadan to set up a fact-finding committee, including the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Oyo State chapter, to assess ownership.
Surveyor Ajibade Bashiru Bolanle, NIESV chairman, confirmed that the investigation favoured the Ojofeitimi family, noting that their survey plan carried an official red copy, while the Akoto family’s documents lacked proper authentication.
Tensions escalated when two Akoto representatives failed to attend a palace meeting where the findings were presented.
Violence reportedly broke out during the dispute, leaving Kunle Ojofeitimi injured and receiving treatment at Adeoyo State Hospital.
Oloko said the handover of the suspect to the DSS was necessary to prevent further unrest and send a strong signal against land grabbing in Ibadan.
The Olubadan reiterated his commitment to promoting justice, urging residents to seek legal channels for dispute resolution.
He also warned that the palace would collaborate with security agencies to act decisively against individuals undermining peace and order.
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