Eba Island: Ondo Faults Ogun Govt’s Claim, Affirms Ownership
Naija News • 1h ago
**The Eba Island Saga: Unraveling the Truth Behind Ondo and Ogun's Rival Claims**
In the world of Nigerian politics, territorial disputes are nothing new. A recent controversy has been brewing over Eba Island, a small oil-rich island located in the Niger Delta, with both Ondo and Ogun states staking their claims. While Ogun state has been making bold assertions about its ownership, the government of Ondo state has countered with evidence from the UK, affirming its long-held claim to the island.
According to Ondo State's Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, archival materials from the UK have shed light on the true ownership status of Eba Island. In a detailed presentation, Ajulo revealed that official records and decades of administration have consistently recognised Eba Island as part of Ondo state. He also disclosed that his solo forensic study in the UK verified this fact, consulting original treaties, maps, intelligence sketches, and gazette notices.
The dispute over Eba Island is not just about geographical boundaries; it's also about the rights and interests of the local communities. For generations, Ilaje indigenes have lived, fished, farmed, and worshipped on Eba Island without paying allegiance or royalties to Ogun state authorities. The natural boundary of River Ufara separates Ilaje land from Ijebu territory, further solidifying Ondo state's claim.
Ajulo's findings raise questions about the motivations behind Ogun state's sudden claim to Eba Island. Has something changed? Is there a hidden agenda at play? The answers to these questions remain unclear, but one thing is certain: the people of Ilaje local government area have a strong stake in this dispute and will not give up their rights without a fight.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it's essential to approach the matter with a critical eye, considering the historical, legal, and geographical evidence presented by both sides. The future of Eba Island and its inhabitants hangs in the balance, and a resolution to this dispute will require a deep understanding of the complexities involved.