Residents of some communities in Ona Ara local government area of Oyo State have raised the alarm over an alleged attempt by unidentified individuals to forcefully take over their homes.
The affected communities, represented by the Araromi General Development Association, which includes Ajonloku, Oloyo, Idi-Ogun Iyi-Ola, Bolarinwa, and Kuye villages, claim that these land grabbers have marked certain properties in the community for acquisition.
In a petition addressed to Governor Seyi Makinde, the communities voiced their concerns, stressing that any forced eviction would render many people homeless.
The communities, through their legal representative, Omoniyi Odeyemi, maintained that some of the properties in question are registered and possess certificates of occupancy obtained from the state’s Ministry of Lands.
Urgent Appeal to Protect Property Rights
The communities have lodged a “Save Our Soul” petition titled “Urgent request to prevent acquisition of property at Ona Ara local government area of Oyo state,” urging the governor to intervene promptly and safeguard the rights of the area’s residents.
In the petition made available to Media Talk Africa on Sunday, the communities stated, “We are the solicitors to Araromi General Development Association, which comprises the following villages: Ajonloku, Oloyo, Idi-Ogun Iyi-Ola, Bolarinwa, and Kuye (hereinafter referred to as our client) and on whose instruction we write.”
They continued, “We write to you with great urgency and concern regarding the acquisition of the properties by undisclosed persons in the above-named villages located in Ona Ara Local Government Area of Oyo State, with a population of well over 10,000.”
The petition further highlighted, “Certain individuals claiming to be government officials have marked some of the properties in the community for acquisition. As it stands, this could have severe consequences for the community at large. Many people will be rendered homeless, and it would also infringe upon personal rights.”
The communities emphasized the fact that some of these properties possess registered certificates of occupancy obtained from the Ministry of Lands. They humbly called upon the governor to intervene and assist in preventing this acquisition, which they believe is not in the best interest of the community and could lead to adverse consequences.
“We are confident that with your expertise and influence, we can explore alternative solutions that would benefit all the occupants. We look forward to your positive response in resolving this pressing issue. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated, as time is of the essence. We have attached copies of documents to prove ownership of these properties,” the communities concluded in their petition.
