Boundary Disputes Between Ondo and Ogun States Over Four Communities
The ongoing boundary disputes between Ondo and Ogun states continue to escalate as the two states trade accusations regarding four communities situated at their shared border. The Ondo state government vehemently rejects the claims made by the Ogun state government, asserting that its citizens are encroaching on Ogun territory.
Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Ondo state, firmly maintains that the communities in question are located within the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo state and rightfully belong to their state. In response, Ogun state’s Deputy Governor, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who also chairs the Ogun State Boundary Committee, accuses the Ondo State government of encroaching on their territories.
During a press conference, Ademola-Olateju refutes the allegations of encroachment, describing them as baseless and an alarming propaganda strategy employed by the Ogun State Government to reinforce their false territorial claim on Irokun, Obinehin, Idigbengben, and Araromi seaside. She finds it comical that the Ogun state government would adamantly refuse to cede any part of the land to Ondo state.
Ademola-Olateju emphasizes that Ondo state is fully committed to protecting the lives and properties of its citizens, as it shares a mutual responsibility with Ogun state as sister states of the Yoruba ethnic group. This dispute predates the creation of both states, and historically, has been managed with utmost responsibility by both parties.
Contrary to the claims made by the Ogun State Deputy Governor, the surge in conflicts along the coastal areas can be traced back to the activities of Ogun State Government officials in regions that fall under the undisputed administrative territories of Ondo State. Communities like Irokun, Obineyin, and Araromi, which were highlighted during the press conference, are not subject to dispute between the two states. They legally and administratively belong to Ondo State, evident through the significant presence of the state government in these areas.
It is evident that the boundary disputes between Ondo and Ogun states require a comprehensive resolution. Both parties must engage in meaningful dialogue and cooperate to find a mutually agreeable solution that respects the historical and legal boundaries of each state. Only through collaboration and respect can the conflict be deescalated and the interests of both states and their citizens be protected.
