A Lagos-based lawyer, Chief Gabriel Giwa-Amu, has petitioned the Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs over alleged impersonation of a traditional title and encroachment on land in the Agege area of the state.
The petition, filed on behalf of his client, Dr. Serry Adeoye Adebayo, accused Mr. Adeola Ismail Abatan, described as an “ungazetted Baale,” of leading about 20 men on August 18, 2025, to forcibly enter Adebayo’s property in Agege.
The group allegedly destroyed survey pillars, building blocks, and desecrated the burial site of Adebayo’s late wife.
Chief Giwa-Amu stated that the land was lawfully acquired by his client from Madam Abibatu Adebi Sunmola of Ajegunle Oniwaya, Ifako, Agege, with the full consent of the Yaya Abatan Chieftaincy Family.
He noted that the burial of Adebayo’s wife on the land had previously taken place without any objection or rival claims.In the petition, the lawyer urged the Commissioner to order an urgent investigation to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order in the community.
He further called on security agencies to scrutinize Mr. Abatan’s activities, alleging that preliminary findings indicated illegal construction had already begun on the disputed land.
The case highlights persistent challenges surrounding land ownership and traditional leadership disputes in Lagos State issues that often escalate into threats to peace if not promptly resolved through lawful channels.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs had not issued an official response.
Written by Niran Odufayo