A fresh wave of violence has erupted in Ilaro, Ogun State, as over 50 armed thugs have forcefully invaded farm land across Iweke, Alasha, Koto-Obo, Idode and Ilobi-Omuwa communities, sparking fear, panic, and renewed tension among local farmers.
The alarm was raised by the families of Olurin, Apena, Ogundele, Dosunmu and Olayanju in a statement issued by their legal representatives, describing the development as a dangerous resurgence of organized land grabbing and criminal occupation, warning that the situation could escalate into a major security crisis if urgent action is not taken.
The families alleged that the thugs were sponsored by one Gbenga Agunbiade, BobbyJooda and Adebayo Jooda.
According to the statement, this is not the first invasion.
In July 2025, armed men allegedly linked to the same sponsor invaded the farmlands wielding machetes, firearms, and charms, destroying economic crops including cocoa plantations, palm trees, gmelina and cassava farms valued at over ₦50 million.
Following that incident, the matter was reported to the Ogun State government and subsequently referred to the Ogun State Task Force on Land Grabbing and Other Related Offences, which intervened and dislodged the invaders.
One suspect was arrested but later granted bail and has since absconded, while the alleged sponsor, Mr. Agunbiade, reportedly failed to honour invitations from the Task Force in Abeokuta.
Despite these interventions, the families revealed that on March 17, 2026, the same group of armed men returned in larger numbers, forcibly occupying the land and currently harassing, threatening and intimidating farmers, thereby halting agricultural activities in the area.
“These individuals are behaving like bandits. Farmers can no longer access their land without fear. The situation is volatile and could lead to loss of lives if not urgently addressed,” the statement reads in part.
The families further noted that the lands in question were backed by existing court judgments, and that attempts by the opposing parties to challenge ownership at the Customary Court, Ilaro, were abandoned after they failed to appear in court.
Efforts by Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, to resolve the dispute amicably were said to have also failed, as the invaders continue their activities unabated.
The families have now formally petitioned the Divisional Police Officer, Ilaro Division, calling for immediate deployment of security personnel to the affected communities; urgent arrest of all invading hoodlums; investigation and prosecution of their alleged sponsor, Mr. Gbenga Agunbiade.
They warned that continued inaction could embolden criminal elements and further undermine law and order in the region.
“This is no longer a mere land dispute. It is a clear case of criminal trespass, destruction of property, and threat to lives. The authorities must act now,” the statement reads.
The families reaffirmed their commitment to lawful resolution but stressed that they would pursue all legal and constitutional remedies available if the situation is not urgently addressed.
They also called on the Ogun State government, security agencies, and the general public to take note of the situation and ensure that justice was served.
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