By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
A member of a recognized Ijebu royal lineage, Prince Olawunmi Samuel Omo'ba Anikinaiya, has issued a public notice alleging an ongoing conspiracy by three traditional rulers within the Erebe Ijebu axis of Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, to dispossess his family of its ancestral heritage.
In a statement circulated to the media, Anikinaiya, who described himself as a graduate of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, and a farmer, claimed that the alleged plot is aimed at usurping the royal lineage, ancestral lands, family identity, and chieftaincy stool of the Adekoya Ofirigidi Anikinaiya Ruling House.
According to him, the disputed area—Erebe Ijebu—is the ancestral homestead of the Oloja Adekoya Ofirigidi lineage, which he said has historically belonged to his family. He alleged that certain individuals, operating under the name Sangokoya Ofirigidi, are impersonating their ancestor and unlawfully selling family land to real estate developers and private buyers.
Anikinaiya further alleged that the traditional rulers involved, working with unnamed accomplices and with the alleged support of a senior police officer, are planning to fabricate allegations of attempted murder and other criminal claims against him and key members of his family and community.
“I have no criminal record and have lived a peaceful life as a farmer and community member,” he stated. “These allegations are, in my view, a calculated attempt to intimidate us and remove us from the picture so our heritage can be taken over.”
Expressing grave concern for his personal safety and that of his family, Anikinaiya said the situation has become more alarming following the death of his immediate junior brother in February this year, which he described as occurring under mysterious circumstances.
He accused relevant authorities of failing to act despite being aware of the dispute and the escalating tensions. “I hold the authorities responsible for any harm that may come to me or members of my family due to their inaction,” he said.
Calling on the people of Ijebuland, traditional stakeholders, and concerned citizens, Anikinaiya appealed for support in what he described as a struggle against land grabbing, impersonation, and the distortion of family history.
“The attempt to rewrite our history and take over our land is a travesty,” he said. “I am not afraid to die, but I will not allow the legacy of my ancestors to be destroyed. I demand justice and protection.”
As of press time, efforts to obtain responses from the traditional institutions and security authorities referenced in the allegations had not yielded results. The newspaper will continue to monitor developments and present all sides of the matter as more information becomes available.
