Olubadan hands over land grabbing suspect to DSS, two others at large

From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has handed over a suspected land grabber to the Oyo State Directorate of the Department of State Services (DSS). Two other suspects remain at large.

The move follows a protracted land dispute between the Akoto and Ojofeitimi families over a parcel of land along ICAST Road in the Elebu area of Ibadan. In a statement yesterday, the monarch’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, said both families had initially sought the Olubadan’s intervention.

The Akoto family, represented by three individuals, claimed ownership of a portion of the land. The Ojofeitimi family rejected the claim, insisting the entire property belonged to them.

To prevent escalation, the Olubadan-in-Council held a mini-meeting last month and directed both parties to submit documentary evidence, including survey plans. An independent investigation was ordered, with a strict warning against further development or threats.

The case took a dramatic turn on Tuesday when the investigation report was presented at the Olubadan Palace. Ajibade Bashiru Bolanle, state chairman, Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), conducted a personal survey and reviewed records at the Ministry of Lands.

He declared that the land occupied by the Ojofeitimi family does not belong to the Akoto family. The survey plan submitted by the Ojofeitimi family bore a red copy — an official validation — while the Akoto family’s plan did not.

Tension, however, mounted when two of the three Akoto representatives failed to appear at the palace for the report presentation.

The situation worsened following allegations that one Kunle Ojofeitimi was assaulted during the investigation period, despite explicit warnings from the Olubadan and his Council to maintain peace. The victim was treated for injuries at Adeoyo State Hospital, and a police report was filed.

The alleged assault and the absence of the two Akoto representatives raised suspicions. The palace subsequently handed over one suspect to the DSS. Two others are currently at large.

The meeting was attended by members of the Olubadan-in-Council, including the Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola Daisi; Asipa Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Asipa Balogun, Oba Abiodun Azeez Agagagugu; and Ekerin Balogun, Oba Mobolaji Akeem Adewoyin. Also present were the Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland, Chief Bayo Oyero, and President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Niyi Ajewole.