Land dispute, a persistent threat to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, has severe consequences for individuals, communities, and the nation. The Land Use Act of 1978 aimed to address land-related issues, but its effectiveness remains debated.
By Adekunle Babafemi
Land dispute, a persistent threat to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, has severe consequences for individuals, communities, and the nation. The Land Use Act of 1978 aimed to address land-related issues, but its effectiveness remains debated.
In a shocking revelation, the Iddo-Ojesa community in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State has accused local authorities and private companies of colluding to unlawfully acquire their ancestral lands. This investigation uncovers a web of deceit, and disregard for the rights of the indigenous people.
The community’s president, Olusanmi Toyin, has called on the government to intervene in the ongoing dispute between the Iddo-Ojesa residents and two companies – Rillix Mining Limited (a Chinese firm) and Joshman Multiconcepts Company Limited (a Nigerian company).
According to Toyin, the land in question was initially leased to an agricultural company in 2006, with the understanding that the land would be used for palm oil, cashew, and livestock farming. The company established schools, provided free education, and was welcomed by the community.
However, the serenity was short-lived. In January 2023, a consent letter was signed between the Omo Meru Family of Iddo-Ojesa and Joshman Multiconcepts, owned by the current Caretaker Chairman of Yagba East Local Government Area, Mr. Dare Joshua. This document, which was supposed to grant Joshman Multiconcepts a mining exploration license, was later discovered to have been doctored and resubmitted for a small-scale mining lease.
Toyin alleges that Mr. Joshua then conspired with some community elders, who are illiterate, to convince them to sign an agreement for the sale of the entire 253 square kilometer land to the unsuspecting Chinese company, Rillix Mining Limited.
The investigation reveals that the disputed land encroaches upon several other communities, including Idofin, Makutu, Odogbe, Illafin, and parts of Ifare, Iboro, Ofe, and Ipele clans in Yagba West Local Government Area.
The community’s philanthropist, who wishes to remain anonymous, expressed disappointment at the unscrupulous behavior of local authorities and the potential environmental impact of the mining activities. Chief Olorusola Henry, the Baale of Odosin, was moved to tears upon discovering the deception used to deprive the people of their ancestral land.
In a surprising twist, the Caretaker Chairman, Mr. Dare Joshua, justified the land transaction, claiming that it was properly done with the consent of the family heads. However, the community secretary, Elder Taiye Ajayi, has called on the people to unite and fight for their rightful heritage.
The Agbana of Isanlu, His Royal Majesty, Oba Moses Etombi, has acknowledged his constitutional right to attest to land transactions, but maintains that the disputed land is not as extensive as claimed and that an agreement was reached to protect the existing farm operations.
This investigation uncovers a troubling pattern of abuse of power, forgery, and disregard for the rights of the Iddo-Ojesa community. The residents now eagerly await justice and the restoration of their ancestral lands, as the battle for their heritage continues.
However, the government at all levels have therefore been urged to intervene in a land matter between Iddo – Ojesa area of Isanlu, in Yagba East Local Government Area and Rillix Mining Limited in collaboration with Joshman Multiconcepts Company Limited.