The government of Ekiti State has called for peace and unity among its citizens to address prolonged conflicts over land disputes in various communities, Ekiti News reports.
This was contained in a statement by Special Assistant on Media to the Deputy Governor, Victor Ogunje, in Ado-Ekiti.
Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Deputy Governor of Ekiti State made this plea in Ado Ekiti on Friday during the resolution of a land dispute involving three royal families in Epe, Ijero Local Government Area of the State.
The intervention stemmed from a petition by the Elepe of Epe, Oba Ayodeji Adesoye, alleging that three princes had incited violence and unrest, hindering his access to farmlands traditionally known as ‘Oko Oba’.
The defendants—Busayo Atoye, Kole Atoye, and Pastor Amos Agbeleoba—countered the claims, asserting that the disputed land belonged to their family, not the royal lineage.
The Deputy Governor while mediating in the crisis expressed regret about how some towns were locked in lingering land crises for decades, thereby igniting acrimony, violence and unwarranted disunity.
She emphasized the commitment of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to fostering peace and unity across Ekiti, stressing that development hinges on communal tranquility.
Encouraging reconciliation, Afuye urged the parties involved to uphold reverence for traditional institutions and customs, assuring that the government would conduct a thorough investigation and ensure justice prevails.
“We must uphold respect for our traditional leaders and customs. Transparency is essential in resolving disputes. Governor Biodun Oyebanji prioritizes peace, and we must honor his vision for communal harmony,” Afuye affirmed.
The Deputy Governor adjourned further proceedings to allow the government ample time to deliberate and reach a final decision on the matter.