Paragraph 1: The Olubadan’s Decree Against Land Encroachment
Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the revered Olubadan of Ibadanland, issued a stern warning to land grabbers and trespassers, commanding them to relinquish any forcefully acquired Ibadan land. This decree, delivered during an emergency meeting at his palace, underscores the escalating boundary disputes between Ibadan in Oyo State and Iwo in Osun State. The meeting, attended by Obas, Mogajis (compound heads), and Baales (village heads) from the disputed boundary areas, highlighted the Olubadan’s resolve to protect Ibadan’s territorial integrity.
Paragraph 2: The Historical Boundary and the Call for Respect
The Olubadan unequivocally declared the Oba River as the historically established boundary between Ibadan and Iwo, emphasizing its significance since time immemorial. He cautioned against misinterpreting Ibadan’s peaceful nature as weakness, emphasizing the need for respect and adherence to established boundaries. The monarch’s warning, conveyed through the Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, served as a clear message that land encroachment would not be tolerated.
Paragraph 3: Protecting Territorial Integrity and the Consequences of Trespassing
The Olubadan entrusted the Obas, Mogajis, and Baales in the affected areas with the responsibility of safeguarding Ibadan’s territorial integrity. He charged them to ensure that no land belonging to Ibadan is compromised, warning trespassers of dire consequences. This mandate underscores the importance of local leadership in upholding established boundaries and maintaining peaceful coexistence.
Paragraph 4: Uniting Against Land Grabbing and Fraudulent Acquisition
The Olubadan called for unity and support from traditional title holders in the Ibadan and Iwo boundary areas. He urged them to collaborate with both the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Oyo State Government to reclaim any land forcefully and fraudulently acquired. This call for collective action signifies the gravity of the situation and the determination to restore rightful ownership.
Paragraph 5: Reinforcing the Message: A Broader Warning Against Land Disputes
The Olubadan’s warning against land grabbing extended beyond the immediate boundary dispute with Iwo. In a separate address during the installation of new compound and village heads, he reiterated his stance against land disputes and insubordination. This broader message emphasizes the importance of peaceful resolution within Ibadan itself, highlighting the Olubadan’s commitment to maintaining harmony and order.
Paragraph 6: The Significance of Peace and Order in Ibadanland
The Olubadan underscored the crucial role of peace in achieving meaningful development, emphasizing that progress cannot thrive in an environment of conflict. He urged the newly installed Mogajis and Baales to prioritize peace within their domains. This message reinforces the Olubadan’s overarching concern for the well-being of Ibadanland, emphasizing that peaceful coexistence is a prerequisite for prosperity and growth.
