…We support oil exploration in our community, but our people must be carried along for the sake of peace and equity
The leadership and people of Ilaje Mahin, Ondo State, has formally clarify matters concerning the territorial status and ownership of Eba Island following recent reports of oil discovery and emerging claims regarding state ownership.
According to the statement issued on behalf of the Ilaje Mahin Communities of Atijere Kingdom, signed by Dr Prince Ola Judah Ajidibo Akinyomi, 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. We also express our readiness to cooperate with duly authorised exploration companies operating within Eba Island.
However, we wish to emphasize that:
- Any misrepresentation of the Island’s territorial identity is inaccurate and potentially destabilizing.
- Host community participation is a legal and moral requirement under Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act.
- 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.
