Clarification on Malicious and Misleading Publication Pertaining to Alleged Land Grabbing by the Executive Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government

The attention of the Executive Chairman, Ibadan South West Local Government, Ambassador Kehinde Adeyemi Akande, has been drawn to a publication circulating on different media stations alleging that he ordered the unlawful bulldozing and forceful takeover of land belonging to the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), Ibadan.

Akande stressed that the publication is false, misleading, malicious and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the hard earned reputation of the Executive Chairman and misinform members of the public.

However, for the avoidance of doubt, at no time did the Executive Chairman embark on any land grabbing exercise or authorize the illegal acquisition of any property belonging to the Federal Government or any institution. The Chairman remains a law abiding public office holder who respects the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the rule of law, and due process in the discharge of his official responsibilities.

Council boss noted that the operation carried out at Odo Ona, Apata, was aimed solely at addressing serious security concerns following persistent complaints by residents over criminal activities allegedly perpetrated within the area. Reports received by the Local Government indicated that the location had become a hideout for hoodlums involved in vandalism of public infrastructure, theft of electricity cables, destruction of water pipelines, rape, bugling, and robbing of houses and other criminal activities that threatened the peace and security of the community.

Also, in response to repeated appeals from community leaders led by Mr Adepoju Popoola and residents, the Local Government, in collaboration with police, local vigilante security agencies and in the interest of public safety, undertook the clearing of illegal structures serving as criminal hideouts. The exercise was never intended to dispossess any lawful owner of land or interfere with any legitimate Federal Government project.

It is therefore unfortunate that individuals have chosen to distort the facts by presenting a lawful security intervention as an act of land grabbing. Such misinformation is capable of creating unnecessary tension and undermining public confidence in government.

The Executive Chairman wishes to reassure the management of the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, development partners,and the general public that his administration has the highest regard for all Federal Government institutions and remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote agricultural development, food security, and economic growth.

Hon. Akande further states that if any individual or institution believes there are genuine concerns regarding the exercise, the appropriate channels of communication and legal processes remain available for constructive engagement rather than resorting to sensational and misleading publications.

Speaking further Council boss, urged members of the public to therefore disregard the false narrative being circulated, as it does not represent the true position of events.

Council helmsman’s administration remains committed to protect lives and properties, maintain peace and security, as well as democratic dividends to the good people of Ibadan South West Local Government in accordance with the law.

E-Signed
Oyekunbi Adediran
Head Info Unit/PRO
Ibadan South West LG
Oluyole Estate Ibadan
23rd July, 2026