Ife Royal Family Calls For Peaceful Resolution Over Late Ooni’s Property
The Igbaro family of Ojaja Compound in Ile-Ife, Osun State, has appealed for peace and understanding among members of the Ojaja family following ongoing disagreements over the sharing and management of landed properties inherited from the late Oba Olasoni Orarigba, Ojaja I, a former Ooni of Ife.
Speaking at a press conference, Prince Awoyefa Eyitayo, who spoke on behalf of the family, said the Igbaro family is deeply committed to ensuring that all issues surrounding the inheritance and distribution of the Ojaja family land are resolved through peaceful and lawful means.
He explained that the family’s appeal became necessary following what he described as growing misinformation and unauthorized claims over the landed properties left behind by the late Oba Olasoni Orarigba, Ojaja I.
According to him, the family felt it was important to clarify the true position of things to prevent further misunderstanding within the community and among potential buyers.
Prince Awoyefa noted that the land located at Fasina Village, along Ibadan Road in Ile-Ife, covers over three thousand acres and remains jointly owned by the descendants of the late monarch’s eight children.
“ He stressed that the property has not been formally partitioned, hence any sale or encroachment without the consent of all recognized representatives of the seven surviving lineages is illegal.”
He further revealed that the family had attended several peace meetings convened by respected traditional rulers and high chiefs aimed at ensuring fairness and equity, but that the matter was yet to be fully settled.
“While calling on all concerned parties to embrace dialogue and harmony, Prince Awoyefa urged the general public to disregard any unofficial documents or transactions concerning the property.”
He also cautioned prospective buyers to verify all information through legitimate family representatives to avoid falling victim to fraudulent land deals.
The family, in the statement, reaffirmed its commitment to resolving all inheritance matters amicably and in accordance with tradition and the rule of law.
It emphasized that the properties left behind by the late monarch — including farmlands and estates located in Moore Quarters and Fasina Village, along Ibadan Road — are jointly owned by the descendants of his eight children.
They confirmed that despite years of discussions, including meetings held in 2012 and 2022, the sharing process remains inconclusive due to lingering misunderstandings among the lineages.
The family also acknowledged the intervention of reputable traditional rulers and chiefs to ensure fairness and transparency, and expressed optimism that peace would soon prevail.
“They warned the public to disregard any unauthorized claims or land sales not approved by the collective representatives of the seven surviving lineages of the Ojaja family, noting that anyone found trespassing or attempting illegal acquisition would face appropriate legal action.”
While acknowledging that disagreements have persisted, the family maintained that it stands for unity, equity, and lawful resolution. It also advised potential land buyers to exercise caution to avoid becoming victims of disputed property transactions.
The statement further called on local authorities and the general public to support ongoing peace efforts and to avoid spreading misinformation capable of worsening the situation.
The family expressed appreciation to Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, describing him as a peace-loving and visionary monarch whose leadership continues to inspire unity and justice.
They expressed confidence that his fatherly intervention, if required, would help restore lasting peace within the compound.
Yusuf Oketola is a trained journalist with over five years of experience in the media industry. He has worked for both print and online medium. He is a thorough-bred professional with an eye of hindsight on issues bothering on social justice, purposeful leadership, and a society where the leaders charge and work for the prosperity of the people.
