The Ilaje Mahin community of Ondo State is asserting the ownership of Eba Island in the state, where crude oil was recently discovered, amidst emerging claims regarding state ownership.
In a statement issued on Thursday by Prince Ola Akinyomi for the palace of the Amapetu of Mahinland and the Ilaje Mahin Communities of Atijere Kingdom, the community noted that Eba Island is historically and administratively part of Ilaje land in Ondo State.
“The Island is inhabited by Ilaje people and has long been administered through the recognized traditional and community structures of Atijere.
“The Ilaje community, under the traditional authority of the Amapetu of Mahin, the paramount ruler of Mahinland, and the Molokun of Atijere, constitutes the legitimate indigenous custodians of the Island.
“These institutions represent the established traditional governance framework through which access, engagement, and community consent must be obtained for any exploration or production activities.
“We welcome responsible investment and commend the federal government’s efforts to expand national oil production in line with economic development objectives,” the statement reads in part.
They also expressed their readiness to cooperate with duly authorized exploration companies operating within Eba Island.
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However, the community emphasized that any misrepresentation of the Island’s territorial identity is inaccurate and potentially destabilizing.
They maintained that host community participation is a legal and moral requirement under the Petroleum Industry Act.
According to them. engagement without recognition of established traditional and community leadership structures risks avoidable tension and disorder.
“We call on relevant federal authorities to ensure that all boundary matters are addressed through constitutionally recognized mechanisms and that due process is strictly observed.
“The Ilaje people remain committed to peace, lawful engagement, and constructive partnership with government and investors.
“We trust that all stakeholders will act with prudence, respect for history, and adherence to established legal frameworks,” the community stated.
