By Staff Reporter
Sagamu, Ogun State — In a move aimed at balancing the protection of public property with residents’ welfare, the Sagamu Local Government has approved a land ratification process for occupants of Oke Aredi under the Precious Community Development Association (CDA), following a crucial engagement with stakeholders on Tuesday.
The meeting, held at the council secretariat, brought together representatives of the local government, members of the Land Advisory Committee led by its Chairman, Bashorun Awosanya Adebayo, and residents of the Oke Aredi community. The dialogue centered on the status of the land currently occupied by the residents and possible steps toward resolving ownership concerns.
During the session, representatives of the community acknowledged that the land in question belongs to the Sagamu Local Government, citing confirmation from the Ogun State Ministry of Lands, Housing, Survey and Urban Development in Abeokuta. The occupants, however, appealed to the council to consider their long-standing presence on the land and explore a pathway for regularizing their stay.
Responding to the appeal, the Executive Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Ogbeni Odulate, described his administration as one that prioritizes humane governance while upholding the law. He assured the occupants that the council had no immediate plans to demolish existing structures but stressed the government’s duty to safeguard public assets.
“Our administration is a government with a human face,” Odulate said. “We will not demolish buildings indiscriminately, but we also cannot abandon our responsibility to protect public property. We must resolve this matter as one family, through lawful and fair means.”
The chairman expressed satisfaction with the constructive tone of the engagement and emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation in reaching a lasting solution. As a gesture of goodwill, he announced that the local government had approved a land ratification process that would enable the occupants to formalize their status on the property.
Under the approved arrangement, residents who successfully complete the ratification process will be issued Customary Right of Occupancy Certificates, providing them with legal recognition and security of tenure.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Mrs. Adenuga, a representative of the occupants, commended the local government and the Land Advisory Committee for their willingness to listen and consider the residents’ plight. She expressed particular gratitude to Chairman Odulate for what she described as his “fatherly approach” and leadership in addressing the issue.
“We appreciate the understanding shown by the council and the committee,” she said. “This process gives our people hope and a clear path forward.”
The Sagamu Local Government reiterated its commitment to dialogue, fairness, and transparency in handling land-related matters across the council area. Officials noted that the resolution of the Oke Aredi issue reflects a broader policy direction that seeks to protect public assets while ensuring that residents are treated with dignity and consideration.
Residents and stakeholders are expected to work closely with the Land Advisory Committee in the coming weeks to commence and complete the ratification process.
