**Eba Island Saga: Setting the Record Straight** In recent times, a long-standing dispute over the ownership of Eba Island has been making headlines in Nigeria. Ogun State has laid claim to the island, sparking a robust response from the Attorney General of Ondo State, Olukayode Ajulo. In a bid to set the record straight, Ajulo has produced a plethora of historical, legal, and geographical evidence to prove that Eba Island rightfully belongs to Ondo State. For decades, Eba Island has been considered part of Ondo State, with various federal agencies, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, recognizing its ownership. So, what prompted Ogun State to suddenly lay claim to the island? Ajulo's investigation has revealed that the dispute is rooted in a lack of understanding of the island's history and geography. In a detailed study of colonial records in the UK, Ajulo uncovered original treaties, maps, and gazette notices that confirm Eba Island's status as part of Atijere in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State. According to historical records, the island was part of the Ilaje/Mahin territory within the Lagos Colony before the 1914 amalgamation of Nigeria. After the amalgamation, it became part of Ondo Province, specifically the Okitipupa Division. Ajulo's research also highlights the island's administrative history, which shows that it was designated a forestry reserve under the Atijere Native Authority. By 1933, Atijere had become the administrative headquarters of the district, and Eba Island fell under its authority. This pattern of administrative control continued even after various local government reforms, including the creation of Ilaje/Ese-Odo Local Government in 1975 and the later establishment of Ese-Odo Local Government Area in 1997. Moreover, Ajulo emphasizes the human and cultural ties between the island and the Ilaje people. Generations of Ilaje indigenes have lived, fished, farmed, and worshipped on Eba Island, never once paying allegiance or royalties to Ogun State authorities. The natural boundary between Ilaje land and Ijebu territory is marked by River Ufara, which has been the eternal divide between the two territories for centuries. In conclusion, Ajulo's exhaustive research has provided conclusive evidence of Eba Island's ownership by Ondo State. As Nigeria continues to navigate its complex history and geography, it is essential to rely on ver