OYO: Govt takes steps to resolve longstanding boundary disputes in 12 LGAs

A peace meeting, convened by the state government, brought together representatives from the affected LGAs at the Mediation Centre, Ministry of Justice, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Deputy Governor and Chairman of the State Boundary Committee, Barrister Bayo Lawal, advised stakeholders from the concerned LGAs to refrain from inciting unrest in their communities, emphasizing the importance of respecting court rulings related to the disputes.

He stressed the need for peaceful resolution of both interstate and inter-LGA boundary conflicts, noting that responsible governance seeks to prevent violence and bloodshed.

Lawal highlighted that the Boundary Committee was constitutionally established and its operations are legally binding.

He announced that discussions between Ibadan South West and Oluyole LGAs, as well as Akinyele and Afijio LGAs, have been adjourned, with a new meeting date to be communicated.

He further disclosed that the committee had adopted rulings from both the High Court and the Court of Appeal to address the boundary issue between Kajola and Iwajowa LGAs.

Oyo East and Afijio LGAs were informed that a decision regarding their case would be announced soon.

The committee is still seeking additional legal documents and evidence from Saki West and Atisbo LGAs to aid resolution of their dispute.

Similarly, the Chairman of Surulere LGA was instructed to provide updates and follow-up actions regarding an intra-LGA conflict between Agbaa and Oko communities.

The committee also urged Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa East LGAs to maintain peace, while directing the State Surveyor General to clearly define administrative boundaries, separate from traditional town or village borders.

During the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, reiterated the government’s commitment to peace.

He noted that a government that has successfully overseen the installation of 40 traditional rulers would not allow boundary conflicts to disrupt community harmony.

He assured all involved LGAs that peaceful coexistence and dialogue remain the administration’s preferred methods for conflict resolution.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, urged stakeholders to accept the committee’s rulings and embrace its mediation efforts, which are based on available facts and documentation.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Biodun Aikomo, added that the committee would carry out detailed investigations to ensure fair and just outcomes for all parties.

The LGAs involved in the boundary disputes include: Ibadan South West and Oluyole, Oyo East and Afijio, Kajola and Iwajowa, Akinyele and Afijio, Saki West and Atisbo, Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa East, Agbaa and Oko communities in Surulere LGA