The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, has issued a firm ban on the activities of land grabbers, locally known as Omo Onile, across Ijesaland in Osun State.
Speaking at Obokungbusi Hall, Ilesa, during the official launch of the Ijesa Development Fund, the monarch condemned the rising cases of extortion and harassment of individuals undertaking construction and development projects in the area.
“The time has come to put an end to this disgraceful practice,” the royal father declared. “Anyone posing as Omo Onile to extort money or obstruct genuine developers must be stopped and prosecuted.”
Oba Haastrup described land grabbing as a major obstacle to investment and community progress. He directed residents to apprehend offenders and hand them over to the authorities for appropriate punishment.
He emphasized that peace, order, and rule of law are essential for the economic growth and transformation of Ijesaland.
“Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of intimidation or lawlessness,” he said. “I call on all traditional rulers, chiefs, and community leaders within Ijesaland to work together to restore our land’s lost glory.”
The Owa Obokun reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Ijesaland achieves sustainable progress through unity, discipline, and collaboration among its people. He noted that the newly inaugurated Ijesa Development Fund would play a key role in promoting infrastructural and social projects across the region.
“Our goal is to make Ijesaland a model of peace, growth, and prosperity,” he added.
The monarch also urged traditional institutions to support the anti–land grabbing directive, stressing that a safe and transparent environment would attract investors and foster economic stability in Ijesaland.
