The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has intervened in the lingering land dispute at Isokan Estate Extension in the Alao Akala, Elebu area of Ibadan, ordering an immediate stop to the planned demolition of about 200 houses in the community.
The monarch gave the directive after a series of meetings with residents, landlords, community stakeholders and other parties affected by the controversy surrounding ownership of the land.
The dispute reportedly began after a claimant, identified as Mogaji Olopade Taofeek Abiola, popularly known as Mogaji Oloyin, insisted that he had secured a judgment from the Ibadan High Court empowering him to reclaim portions of land within the estate.
Following the development, tension reportedly grew within the community as many homeowners and residents feared that their houses could be demolished at any moment. Some residents whose buildings were already affected were said to have approached the Olubadan for intervention, seeking protection against what they described as an attempt to forcefully take over the property.
Concerned about the growing anxiety in the area, the traditional ruler invited the concerned parties for discussions aimed at restoring calm and preventing further escalation of the dispute.
After listening to complaints and submissions from the affected individuals, the Olubadan directed that no house should be demolished in the community pending further clarification and proper resolution of the matter.
The monarch also ordered residents whose rooftops had earlier been removed during the dispute to reinstall them immediately, stressing that no individual should take laws into their hands while efforts are ongoing to determine the rightful ownership of the land.
He warned suspected land grabbers and individuals attempting to exploit the situation to stay away from the area, noting that any action capable of disrupting peace in the community would not be tolerated.
According to the Olubadan, the decision to suspend the demolition became necessary in order to carefully examine the claims of all parties involved and ensure that justice is served without causing unnecessary hardship to innocent residents.
The royal father further stated that maintaining peace and protecting lives and property remain a priority, adding that due process must be followed before any action is taken on the disputed land.
Residents of the community were said to have welcomed the intervention, expressing relief over the suspension of the demolition exercise and hope that the matter would be resolved peacefully.
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