TOS Benson’s family alleges encroachment, questionsissuance of land documents in Ikorodu
A land dispute has emerged in Ikorodu, Lagos State, with representatives of the family of late statesman, Chief Theophilus Owolabi Shobowale (TOS) Benson, raising concerns over alleged encroachment and the
A land dispute has emerged in Ikorodu, Lagos State, with representatives of the family of late statesman, Chief Theophilus Owolabi Shobowale (TOS) Benson, raising concerns over alleged encroachment and the issuance of documents on a parcel of land belonging to the family.
Speaking for the family, Prince Mikail Ayeni said the disputed property, measuring about 55 acres and located at Ibelefun, Amojo village, Ibeshe Road, is covered by two registered conveyances dated 1975 and 1976. According to him, the documents remain valid and are lodged at the state Land Registry.
Ayeni questioned the basis for the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) on the land by the state government, noting that the conveyances predate the introduction of the Cof O. He alleged that individuals had entered the land, removed fencing and gates, and started construction. He claimed that a security guard was assaulted during the incident.
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The matter, he said, was reported to the Ipakodo Police Division and subsequently referred to higher police authorities, including the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba.
Ayeni further cited reports he attributed to the state Public Advice Centre and the Lands Bureau, which, according to him, confirmed that a 1979 government gazette referenced by some developers relates to land in Ebute, Ipakodo, and not Ibelefun, Ibeshe. He maintained that certified true copies of the conveyances and related reports support the family’s claim to ownership, stating that an interlocutory injunction was granted on December 17, 2015, by Justice M.A. Savage of the Ikorodu High Court, restraining further development on the land pending the determination of a substantive suit.
