Ketu Monarch, Council Clash Over Disputed Land as Palace Construction Sparks Tension in Lagos
Tension has risen in Ketu, Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State, following a dispute over a parcel of land where a new palace is reportedly being constructed.
The Oba of Ketu, Isiaka Oyero, has accused the Oba of Ikosi and local authorities of encroaching on land that is already the subject of an ongoing court case. He made the allegations while addressing journalists at his palace on Saturday alongside his lawyer, Ayo Odekunle.
Oyero claimed that the disputed one-acre land was originally donated in 1980 by the Balogun Oyero family to the Nigerian Postal Service for the construction of a post office. He alleged that portions of the land had since been taken over for public and administrative structures without compensation.
According to him, the situation worsened when new construction work, including a palace project, began on the land despite a pending legal dispute.
He further alleged that demolition activities and eviction notices were issued while the matter was still before the court, describing the actions as a violation of legal procedure.
“When a matter is in court, all parties are expected to maintain the status quo,” he said, adding that efforts had been made to prevent confrontation between residents and workers on the site.
Oyero also said the matter had been reported to security agencies and that legal steps, including an application for an injunction, were underway to halt further construction.
However, the Oba of Ikosi and representatives of the local council have dismissed the allegations, insisting that the development is lawful and backed by proper documentation and approvals.
The Ikosi-Isheri LCDA Chairperson, Samiat Bada, was also mentioned in the dispute, with the Ketu monarch accusing her administration of encroachment on the land.
In response, community leaders and stakeholders have called for restraint, warning that the disagreement could escalate tensions if not properly managed.
The dispute highlights a long-standing land ownership conflict in the area, with both sides maintaining opposing claims while the matter remains before the court.
