The Nigerian Army has issued a stern warning to the leaders and residents of Oghede and Iyanomo communities in Edo State, following repeated encroachment on military property surrounding the Ekehuan Barracks in Benin City. According to Captain Chinonso Oteh, the Public Relations Officer of 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the military is considering taking firm action to address the situation.
The issue stems from the communities’ continued disregard for previously agreed terms, despite several attempts by the military to resolve the matter amicably. An earlier out-of-court agreement was reached after the communities filed a legal case against the military, which was dismissed for lack of legal standing. However, instead of honoring the terms of the settlement, community leaders have continued to sell portions of the Nigerian Army’s land to hoteliers, estate developers, and private individuals.
Oteh expressed regret over the communities’ failure to honor the agreement, stating that the Nigerian Army had agreed to the out-of-court settlement in the spirit of goodwill and civil-military cooperation. He noted that the ongoing encroachment not only contravenes the agreement but also poses significant safety hazards, as several developments are situated within areas classified as operational zones, including locations designated for live-fire drills.
The Army has warned that if the activities persist, land grabbers may attempt to take over the entire Ekehuan Barracks property, allegedly with the backing of the local traditional head. Furthermore, Oteh alleged that certain individuals had forged official documents in a bid to falsely claim that ownership of the disputed land had been relinquished by the Army. He clarified that the land in question was lawfully acquired and demarcated in 1966, and a Certificate of Occupancy was issued to the Nigerian Army on April 26, 1994, in accordance with Edo State land laws.
The 4 Brigade has stressed its commitment to upholding peace and order in the region, stating that it would not succumb to intimidation or misinformation aimed at undermining military authority. As the situation continues to unfold, the Nigerian Army remains resolute in its determination to protect its property and maintain stability in the area. The warning serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting military property and the need for communities to adhere to agreed terms, in order to promote peaceful conflict resolution and maintain public safety.
