Tensions escalated in about ten communities in Ondo East Local Government Area on Thursday as farmers and local residents protested against detained traditional rulers, disowning their authority and calling for immediate intervention by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The protesters alleged that the Olu of Igba Community, Oba Sina Olayele, and the Olu of Uloko Agboden, HRH Moses Awonusi Apalara, were self-proclaimed leaders who had lost all legitimacy to act as community chairmen.
Speaking at the NUJ Press Centre in Akure, Ademola Ajibade, spokesperson for the protesters, clarified the controversy surrounding the Ojo Ajisafe family, who were allegedly labeled as “invaders.”
He said the detained ruler had been arrested and arraigned for allegedly attacking a farmer, but emphasized that he does not hold a legitimate traditional title.
To support their claims, the protesters presented a June 27, 2023, letter from Bolani Obideyi, Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, addressed to the Ondo East Local Government Chairman.
The letter directed the Yangede of Epe to halt the appointment and installation of minor chiefs in the area to prevent unrest.
Chief Olu Faloye, the authentic Baale of Agbondin community, was also presented with an official certificate of appointment issued by the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, reinforcing the protesters’ position.
Idowu Akinmoladun, a native of the area, said, “We appeal to Governor Aiyedatiwa to investigate this matter. The Ajisafe family has been unfairly accused. We are law-abiding and want justice to prevail.
This land has multiple court rulings in our favor, and any claim that Ojo Ajisafe is not a family member is false. The man calling himself ‘royal highness’ is an impostor.”
The protesters delivered a four-page petition to the governor, titled “Dire Need For Intervention In The Prevention Of Subversion Of Justice,” urging him to ensure fairness and prevent the suppression of ordinary citizens’ rights.
Another letter was sent to the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice seeking similar intervention.
During the protest, participants carried placards reading: “Killer Gang! Land Grabbers Criminals Not King”, “Our Able Governor! Curb Tenants/Land Grabbers Excesses”, and “Renttes Crowd Can’t Undo Family Inheritance With Verified Court Judgements”, highlighting their grievances.
The residents warned that without government intervention, the crisis over land ownership could further destabilize the communities.
