Chairman of phone sellers and repairers across Ogun State, Ifebola Togunwa, also known as Lobot, has called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to interfere on the on-going land dispute with land grabbers.
He made this call for government interference in a recent interview with press men at the state capital.
The recent disturbing events at the State Capital’s computer and telecommunication hub were discussed during the interview, where Togunwa shed light on the four-year-long struggle with land grabbers affecting their business.
Togunwa highlighted that the Ogun State government, in the previous administration, granted the land to the telecommunication market. However, troubles arose with the current administration, as land grabbers claimed ownership, leading to disputes between the market users and the land grabbers.
The situation escalated when soldiers invaded the disputed land a year ago, alleging it belonged to the Fakoya family. Despite efforts to resolve the matter through the Olu of Ibara, the issue resurfaced with a court order filed against 20 individuals, including Togunwa. The court dismissed the case due to inconsistencies in the report.
Subsequently, the Fakoya family, backed by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) named Fash, pursued legal action and involved the police, accusing 10 individuals, including Togunwa, of preventing access to the land. Togunwa expressed concern over the misuse of legal influence and an excessive police presence during the land dispute compared to other security incidents.
Togunwa pleaded for Governor Dapo Abiodun’s intervention, emphasizing the potential social and economic impact on over 3,000 youths working in the market. He called on the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Representatives, SSG, local government officials, and concerned citizens to support their cause and prevent further complications.
The plea aims to safeguard the livelihoods of market participants and maintain security within Ogun State.
