The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has called for stronger legal frameworks to effectively combat the growing menace of land grabbing in Ibadan.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, while receiving the report of the Niyi Akintola-led Anti-Land Grabbing Committee, the monarch stressed that decisive legal backing is essential to address the challenge.
He proposed the enactment of bye-laws by local government legislative councils, in line with the Land Use Act, to establish special tribunals for the speedy adjudication of land grabbing cases, alongside clearly defined sanctions for offenders.
Oba Ladoja decried the increasing sophistication of fraudulent land claims, recounting a recent case where a suspect presented a purported 1912 Supreme Court judgment to assert ownership of land in Oluyole Local Government Area.
“We have reached a point where land grabbers must understand that enough is enough,” the monarch said. “A document predating Nigeria’s amalgamation in 1914 cannot be valid. Such claims are not only fraudulent but unacceptable.”
He further condemned the use of fake survey plans and frivolous petitions, noting instances where individuals manipulate legal and security institutions through false claims, including petitions alleging threats to life and other serious offences.
The Olubadan also called for sanctions against individuals who file false petitions, warning that such actions undermine justice and public trust.
Highlighting the widespread impact of land grabbing, Oba Ladoja noted that the persistent crisis has significantly damaged Ibadan’s investment climate. He emphasized the need for integrity-driven tribunal members to restore confidence in land administration.
At the event, attended by notable traditional leaders including Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Oba Kola Adegbola, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, and Oba Abiodun Azeez Agagagugu, the monarch also vowed to take decisive action against any Mogajis, Baales, or chiefs found complicit in land grabbing activities.
He commended members of the committee for their diligence and integrity, expressing the collective appreciation of the Ibadan people.
Earlier, the Committee Chairman, Chief Niyi Akintola, disclosed that the panel received 179 memoranda, in addition to over 25 submissions still with the Palace Secretary. He described land grabbers as organized networks with deep connections across key government institutions and agencies.
“This informed our wide consultations with stakeholders, including the State Government, local government authorities, law enforcement agencies, judiciary, and professionals in land administration,” he said, adding, “Your Imperial Majesty, we refrained from delivering judgments, but it is evident that the system is deeply flawed.”
Akintola further noted that submissions from outside Ibadan were returned, as the committee’s mandate was limited to Ibadanland.
