Alaafin of Oyo Warns Land Grabbers, Threatens 15-Year Jail Term
Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has issued a stern warning to individuals involved in land grabbing, especially those using violence, threats, or coercion to extort money from legitimate property owners, urging them to desist or face the law.
The warning comes amid reported violent attacks by suspected land grabbers on residents of 12 villages in Oyo West Local Government Area, including Itosi Yaya, Tella Omooba, Jowe, Idi-Iyalode, Bada, Ladindin, Janna, Ojutaye, Iporin Kajola, Ajibade, Laagbe and Ariwinyo. The disputed area reportedly stretches from Odo-Itosi to Odo-Ogun.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch said Oyo metropolis is blessed with vast land resources, stressing that land remains a key driver of economic development.
He, however, lamented that land speculators and criminal elements have over time deployed unlawful means to dispossess rightful owners of their property, describing the trend as dangerous to peace and investment.
Oba Owoade referenced the Oyo State Real Properties Protection Law 2016, noting that it is already being enforced through a dedicated task force.
“Under the Law, land grabbers can now be jailed for up to 15 years while those who aid and abet them will also not go scot-free,” the statement read.
The monarch said rising demand for land has fuelled illegal transactions, encroachments and violent takeovers, adding that these activities have robbed many citizens of their properties and undermined investor confidence.
He recalled that upon ascending the throne, he declared “enough is enough” and set up a Land Committee to restore order and legality to land administration within the kingdom.
According to the statement, the committee, made up of experienced professionals and respected elders, was created to address long-standing complaints of intimidation, fraudulent land sales and illegal acquisitions.
Its mandate includes investigating cases of land fraud, encroachment and unlawful transactions, while ensuring that land dealings are governed strictly by law rather than force.
Reaffirming his commitment, the Alaafin said peace, order, and the protection of lives and property remain top priorities of his administration, warning that no effort would be spared in dealing with offenders.
He also urged members of the public to disregard individuals or groups falsely claiming ownership of land in the affected communities.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
