Gov. Abiodun Warns Traditional Rulers against Unauthorized Land Allocations to Strangers

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has issued a firm warning to traditional rulers against any unauthorised allocation or sale of land to non-indigenes, emphasizing that such actions will attract strict sanctions and legal consequences. Speaking at a high-level security meeting in Iperu Remo on Monday, Governor Abiodun clarified that all land within Ogun State is government property and that traditional authorities have no legal right to allocate land to strangers without following due process.

He reprimanded any Baale or Kabiyesi who signs Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) or engages in land sales to non-indigenous persons, stating, “We will hold any traditional ruler accountable for such acts, and the law will act swiftly.” The governor stressed the urgent need to curb land-related irregularities that could threaten public peace and security.

Beyond the land issue, Governor Abiodun outlined comprehensive security strategies to safeguard the state. These include mandatory registration and documentation of all foreign nationals, the dismantling and government takeover of the ZAGA settlement to curb its use for unlawful activities, and the sanctioning of landlords who harbor criminals. He also announced plans to establish a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ilara, a critical border community in Yewa North, to enhance border security.

The governor highlighted ongoing measures to regulate scavengers statewide, intensify security operations in forests and government reserves to flush out criminal hideouts, and decisively confront illegal mining activities. The state is currently investigating the Ajebo non-indigene settlement for security concerns and will take appropriate actions following interrogation.

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Governor Abiodun lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership in stabilizing Nigeria’s economy and the achievements of security agencies in rescue operations within Niger and Kwara States. He reaffirmed that Ogun State remains one of the most peaceful and secure states in Nigeria, attributing this to continuous vigilance, decisive governance, and active community cooperation.

The governor called on residents to support security efforts by providing credible and timely information to law enforcement agencies. He also praised local hunters for their valuable contributions to community security and pledged ongoing government support for law enforcement partnerships.

Governor Abiodun concluded by affirming that peace and security are essential for meaningful economic development and that Ogun State’s government is fully committed to protecting lives, property, and the state’s stability through strengthened inter-agency collaboration and proactive measures.