By Jelili Gbadamosi
The residents of Agbooro, Olatunde, Olorode, Agbelu, Odedola, Akero, and Sagalu in the Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State have accused the Olu of Obafemi, Oba Taofeek Owolabi Kayode, of unlawfully seizing their farmlands, totaling approximately 500 hectares.
The aggrieved communities voiced their grievances during a press conference held on Friday.
The residents alleged that representatives of the monarch offered N200,000 per hectare to purchase the farmland, an offer they reportedly rejected.
Addressing newsmen on Friday, the Baale of Agboro, Chief Isaac Oguntoyinbo, and the Baale of Latunde, Chief Sunday Olatunde, emphasised that the land in question is vital for their sustenance, used for cultivating cash crops like kolanut, cocoa, and other food crops.
According to them, the land has already been fenced off, and a billboard has been erected to advertise its sale.
The residents further complained that the land seizure has led to significant disruptions in their daily lives.
They claimed that the community’s water source has been damaged, and the road leading to the only public school in the area has been obstructed, making it difficult for children to access education.
Additionally, they expressed concerns over their struggle to find drinkable water, raising fears of potential health crises, such as a cholera outbreak.
In a plea for urgent intervention, the residents called on Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and the paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Michael Gbadebo, to address the situation and prevent further hardship.
They urged these leaders to hold Oba Taofeek Owolabi Kayode accountable and protect their livelihoods.
Responding to the allegations, Oba Taofeek Owolabi Kayode denied any involvement in land grabbing.
The monarch asserted that the 500 hectares of land in question do not belong to the communities.
He dismissed the accusations, stating, “as a traditional ruler of this community, I don’t think I can be alleged for land grabbing. Any king alleged for land grabbing is not a king.”
Oba Kayode further claimed that he has not sold any land that does not belong to him, suggesting that false politicians might be behind the allegations to tarnish his reputation.
He also argued that those complaining about land grabbing are not indigenous to the communities in question.
The monarch advised anyone experiencing land disputes to present evidence of ownership and report the matter to the police.
He emphasised that land ownership cannot be claimed without proper documentation, challenging the aggrieved residents to prove their claims.
The unfolding land dispute in Agbooro and Olatunde highlights the broader issues of land rights and governance in rural communities.
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