By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Members of the Concerned Indigenes of Iraye-Oke, Eredo Local Community Development Area, Epe, have submitted a petition to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, seeking justice and intervention in the alleged illegal takeover of their lands and reported molestation of community members by the Nigerian Army.
The petition, dated September 4 and signed by Muyiwa Okesanya, Adebola Jacobs, and Seyi Ibrahim, was made public on Wednesday and has garnered support from prominent sons and daughters of the community. Notable figures endorsing the petition include Mr. Adedeji Ademuyiwa, former Chairman of Kosofe Local Government (2003-2011); Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, former Commissioner in Lagos; Mr. Olumuyiwa Okesanya, former Sole Administrator, Eredo LCDA; Mr. Adebola Jacob, former Director at Lekki Free Trade Zones; Mr. Babatunde Edu, former Managing Director of DHL Nigeria and West Africa; and Muyiwa Anwoju, General Manager of LASACO Insurance Plc, among others.
The petition was also copied to several government officials, including the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, Hon. Wale Raji (Member of the Federal House of Representatives, Epe Federal Constituency), Hon. Abiodun Tobun (Epe I), Hon. Sylvester Ogunkelu (Epe II), and Hon. Monsuru Ismail, the Executive Chairman of Eredo LCDA.
In the petition, the affected landowners expressed deep concern over the recent military’s alleged illegal takeover of their community land and the reported incidents of molestation of community members. They stressed their community’s long-standing history and attachment to the land in question, emphasizing that unauthorized actions that threaten their rights and well-being are a matter of utmost concern.
The petition called on the state government to initiate a thorough and impartial investigation into the alleged illegal takeover of their community land by the military and the reported cases of molestation. It urged transparency in the investigation process and the sharing of findings with concerned stakeholders.
If it is determined that military personnel acted unlawfully, the petition demands that appropriate legal action be taken against those responsible. The affected community members seek justice and accountability for the actions taken against them.
Regarding restitution and compensation, the petition called for appropriate measures to be taken if the military’s actions have resulted in damages, losses, or emotional distress among community members. They emphasized the importance of involving the affected community in decisions related to their land and well-being.
To prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, the petition urged the state government to implement measures that protect the rights and safety of communities and ensure that military personnel adhere to legal protocols when operating within civilian areas.
Copy of the Petition
