In a contentious territorial dispute, the Irokun community finds itself at the heart of a battle between neighboring Nigerian states, Ondo and Ogun. The dispute has intensified as both sides firmly assert their claims, leading to heightened tensions in the region.
The regent of the Irokun community, Princess Adeyinka Abejoye-Ogunyemi, has boldly declared her people’s readiness to withstand any challenges in defense of their territory against what they view as the territorial ambitions of the Ogun State Government. This conflict stems from the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako Oyedele, stating that Irokun is not part of Ondo State.
Princess Abejoye-Ogunyemi, however, remains resolute in her stance, emphasizing that the Irokun kingdom unequivocally belongs to Ondo State. She asserts that nothing can alter the reality that Irokun remains within Ondo State’s jurisdiction.
The root of the dispute appears to be connected to the now stagnant multimillion-dollar Olokola project. Ogun State’s attempt to incorporate Olurokun into the Ijebu Traditional Council is seen by the Irokun community as a move related to this project.
Prince Emmanuel Ogunbajo, the Olurokun of Irokun, expressed their frustration with Ogun State’s actions, stating, “The current non-existent territorial dispute was schemed when the Ondo and Ijebu Provinces were created in 1915, and part of Ilaje in the western boundary with Lagos along the Lekki Peninsula was sought to be carved to create littoral access for the new Ijebu Province.”
He highlighted that, apart from territorial claims, Ogun State lacks a substantial presence in any of the constituent communities of Irokun Kingdom. Access to social amenities, including secondary education, primarily comes from Ondo State.
Moreover, the territorial dispute has deterred potential investment in the region. The Olokola project, which once promised oil refineries, deep seaports, and petrochemical industries, has remained stagnant. This has discouraged investors while allowing for the proliferation of fraudulent real estate developers and land speculators, often in collaboration with Ogun State officials.
Prince Ogunbajo emphasized, “We wish to let Her Excellency know that Irokun Kingdom is not being claimed for Ondo State. It has always been an inseparable component of the Ilaje nation as part of Ondo State. This reality will remain the same regardless of any administrative arrangement made by Nigeria.”
Amidst this ongoing dispute, the Ogun State Government has allegedly resorted to using security forces and some immigrant groups within the Irokun Kingdom to assert its claims. However, the Irokun community remains steadfast in their commitment to Ondo State, prepared to endure any challenges to protect their identity and territory.
As this territorial standoff continues, calls for an amicable resolution that respects historical boundaries and the wishes of the affected communities grow louder. The people of Irokun are hopeful for a peaceful resolution that will pave the way for a brighter and harmonious future in the region.
Source: The Guardian
