A Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has accused the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of forcibly taking over ancestral lands in Makoko and other waterfront communities. The group also criticized the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for allegedly endorsing state actions and remaining silent while Yoruba residents are displaced from their ancestral homes.
In a statement released Sunday by the group’s Home Director, Princess Balogun, and signed by Convener Olusola Badero, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá alleged that armed police and task force operatives were deployed to Makoko and surrounding areas, resulting in shootings, casualties, and the displacement of lawful residents. The group described these actions as a betrayal of Yoruba values, particularly by traditional institutions expected to protect vulnerable communities.
“Oba Akiolu is watching how Governor Sanwo-Olu is taking over Makoko people’s ancestral homes, sending police task forces to shoot at them and render them internally displaced persons in their own land,” the statement read. The Union also referenced similar operations in Oworonshoki, which reportedly led to deaths during forced evictions.
The organization condemned the Oba’s inaction, asserting that Yoruba monarchs historically acted as defenders of their people against oppression. The group accused some traditional rulers of prioritizing political patronage over the welfare of their subjects and warned that continued silence amounts to complicity.
Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá called on Oba Akiolu to intervene immediately, demand the return of seized ancestral lands, and ensure adequate compensation for victims, including families of those injured or killed during state operations. The group further warned that it would pursue legal action if traditional rulers fail to uphold their responsibilities and protect Yoruba communities.
The Union emphasized that while traditional institutions remain respected, silence in the face of injustice is unacceptable. “We respect our monarchs, but respect does not mean silence in the face of injustice,” the statement concluded.
