An investigation into claims of farmland devastation, criminal intimidation, and possible land grabbing in the state’s Ajogbo Akia village has been started by the Ogun State Police Command.
The investigation was prompted by media reports about worries expressed by the community’s citizens and traditional leadership regarding the purported actions of suspected land grabbers.
Bode Ojajuni, the Ogun State Command Commissioner of Police, issued an order for a prompt and thorough inquiry into the accusations.
The investigation’s goals are to ascertain the facts, pinpoint the perpetrators of any crimes, and guaranty that those found guilty are held accountable.
“The Ogun State Command Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, has ordered an immediate, thorough investigation into the allegations to ascertain the true facts, identify perpetrators, and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice,” the Command stated.
However, the police made it clear that disagreements over land titles, ownership claims, and border modifications are still civil matters and ought to be settled by the appropriate legal authorities.
The directive clarified that when criminal acts are allegedly perpetrated against them, people who have legal title and statutory papers proving land ownership may still contact the police.
“The law gives such individuals the right to report these acts to the Police for thorough investigation and possible prosecution when a party has legitimate title and statutory documentation of land ownership but suffers any criminal act such as malicious damage to crops, destruction of property, criminal trespass, or threats to life,” the statement continued.
The Command has also instructed Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers with jurisdiction over the area to send intelligence assets and high-visibility patrols to Ajogbo Akia and surrounding agricultural corridors in order to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
In order to allow farmers and locals to access their farmlands and carry out their legal activities without fear of violence, harassment, or illegal intervention, the police said the patrol teams will keep a strong presence in the region day and nite.
The Command declared, “The Ogun State Police Command reiterates its zero-tolerance stance against illegal land grabbing, self-help, and threats to life.”
The police also praised Baale Dr. Oluwasegun Adebiyi, the community’s traditional ruler, and other leaders for turning to law enforcement rather than using violence.
The leadership called for assistance with investigators by providing reliable and useful information while urging locals and members of the public to maintain composure and obey the law.
According to the police, this kind of cooperation will help with the investigation and help guaranty long-term peace in Ajogbo Akia and throughout Ogun State.
