Police probe farmland destruction, land grabbing claims in Ogun

The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation into allegations of farmland destruction, criminal intimidation and suspected land grabbing in Ajogbo Akia community of the state.

The investigation followed media reports on concerns raised by the traditional leadership and residents of the community over alleged activities of suspected land grabbers.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Bode Ojajuni, ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the allegations.

According to the command on X on Friday, the investigation aims to establish the facts, identify those responsible for any criminal acts, and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.

“The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Bode Ojajuni, has ordered an immediate, comprehensive investigation into the allegations to ascertain the true facts, identify perpetrators, and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice,” the Command said.

The police, however, clarified that disputes relating to land titles, ownership claims and boundary adjustments remain civil matters and should be resolved through competent courts of law.

The command explained that individuals with legitimate title and statutory documentation establishing land ownership can still approach the Police when criminal acts are allegedly committed against them.

“Where a party possesses 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 law gives such individuals the right to report these acts to the Police for thorough investigation and possible prosecution,” the statement added.

As part of measures to prevent a breakdown of law and order, the Command has also directed Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers with jurisdiction over the area to deploy high-visibility patrols and intelligence assets to Ajogbo Akia and adjoining agricultural corridors.

The Police said the patrol teams would maintain a strong presence in the area, both day and night, to enable farmers and residents to access their farmlands and conduct their lawful activities without fear of violence, harassment or unlawful interference.

“The Ogun State Police Command reiterates its zero-tolerance stance against illegal land grabbing, self-help, and threats to life,” the Command stated.

The police also commended the traditional ruler of the community, Baale Dr. Oluwasegun Adebiyi, and other community leaders for seeking law-enforcement intervention instead of resorting to violence.

The command urged residents and members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding, while calling for cooperation with investigators through the provision of credible and actionable information.

The police said such cooperation would assist the investigation and contribute to ensuring lasting peace in Ajogbo Akia and across Ogun State.