The Ogun State Government has reiterated its territorial claim over Eba Island in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, dismissing recent claims from some quarters in Ondo State as misleading and potentially inflammatory.
The clarification comes after public debates and a motion sponsored by Donald Ojogo, representing Ilaje Federal Constituency in Ondo State, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval for drilling at an abandoned oil well on Eba Island.
In a statement on Sunday, Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Information and Strategy, emphasized that Eba Island falls entirely within Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. He noted that Nigeria’s state and local government boundaries are constitutionally defined and documented by the National Boundary Commission, with official maps confirming the island’s location in Ogun State.
Akinmade explained that Eba Island is a long-established community whose status predates Nigeria’s independence and has remained unchanged through successive political reorganizations, including the 1976 creation of Ogun State. “Since 1976, there has been no constitutional amendment, court ruling, or federal gazette that alters the boundary,” he said.
The government clarified that there are two locations called “Eba.” While one lies near Ondo State’s forest reserve, the larger Eba Island—site of the approved oil well—is fully within Ogun State’s coastal corridor.
The presidential approval for drilling followed extensive verification by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and other federal agencies, all of which confirmed Ogun State as the host territory. Akinmade noted that the deployment of naval and security assets to the area further underscores federal recognition of Ogun State’s jurisdiction.
The statement also referenced historical and administrative records, including Colonial Government Gazette No. 660 of April 29, 1950, lease agreements, survey plans, and INEC polling unit registration, all confirming Eba Island as part of Ogun State. Independent verification using modern geospatial technology also affirmed the well’s location within the state’s boundaries.
Ogun State called for restraint, responsible public engagement, and adherence to the rule of law, stressing its commitment to peaceful coexistence and cooperation with the Federal Government in safeguarding national resources. Authorities noted that the people of Makun-Omi Kingdom are committed to maintaining peace and protecting lives and property.
“The facts are clear, and the law is settled. Eba Island, where the approved oil well is located, is in Ogun State,” the statement concluded.
