Oluwo warns Makinde, Adeleke of looming crisis over Oyo-Osun border dispute

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has raised alarm over a growing land dispute between communities in Oyo and Osun States, warning that the situation could escalate into a full-blown inter-state crisis if not urgently addressed.

In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Alli Ibraheem, the monarch accused land grabbers from Lagelu, Oyo State, of raiding and attacking Osun border communities, particularly those in Iwoland, Osun State.

“Just yesterday, these land grabbers from Lagelu mobilized again for an onslaught against the people of Oke Oba villages in Iwoland,” Oba Akanbi said. “They have committed arson, destroyed public and private properties, sacked teachers and students from classrooms, and razed the palaces of some Baales.”

The monarch further disclosed that the attackers looted and burned down community facilities, including a government school and maternity center. “They removed the roofs, looted and set ablaze the palace. They took over farms, harvested produce, and robbed villagers at gunpoint,” he added, noting that armed thugs remain stationed in the affected villages.

Oba Akanbi warned that continued silence could trigger retaliatory attacks from aggrieved residents. “I always urge the people to remain calm and avoid retaliation. Land disputes are not won with guns. Only those with no vision for the future resort to violence over boundaries,” he said.

He emphasized that the existing boundaries between Oyo and Osun have been in place since Osun State was created on August 27, 1991, and should be respected. “The land grabbers are ignorant of the official demarcation and existing maps,” he noted.

The Oluwo appealed to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to act swiftly to prevent further escalation. He urged them to implement the recommendations of the National Boundary Commission and reinforce peace in the affected areas.

“Only the strict enforcement of boundary reports can bring lasting peace. The fragile nature of the region requires urgent attention and cooperation between both states,” he concluded.