In a heart-wrenching plea for justice and protection, Sodiq Olamilekan Lawal, a resident of Abegede Village, Boko Area, Ibadan, Oyo State, has raised the alarm over the safety of his life and that of his family. His cry comes in the wake of a series of violent attacks allegedly orchestrated by hoodlums in the community, following a protracted dispute over his late father’s land.
The crisis, which has already claimed the lives of one of his junior brother, Sheriff Taiwo Lawal and his father Yekeen Agboworin Lawal, has left Sodiq and his family living in constant fear. According to Sodiq, the root of the conflict lies in his refusal to allow the sale of his father’s remaining land, a decision that has pitted him against the community’s chief, Davies Alao Ogunbiyi, and some members of his own family.
“I wanted Nigeria to know that my life and my family members are under threat,” Sodiq lamented in an emotional interview.
“The head of the family, Chief Davies Alao Ogunbiyi, has vowed to deal with me physically and spiritually unless I allow them to sell all the remaining land. They are also pressuring me to surrender my daughter for a traditional rite, including circumcision, which I will never agree to.”
Sodiq’s father, Yekeen Agboworin Lawal, passed away on May 29, 2021, leaving behind a contentious inheritance. Sodiq’s junior brother, Sheriff Taiwo Lawl and his father Yekeen Agboworin Lawal, were killed on the family land. Additionally, Sodiq revealed that his younger brother died eight years ago under circumstances he can no longer vividly recall.
The violence has not spared Sodiq’s immediate family. His wife, daughter, and mother-in-law have also been targeted, forcing them to flee their home and move to an undisclosed location.
“I have been forced to abscond from my residence with my family because of the attacks,” Sodiq revealed. “We are living in fear, and I don’t know where to turn for help.” Sodiq’s story is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by individuals who stand up against powerful forces in their communities. His refusal to comply with the demands of Chief Davies Alao Ogunbiyi and his allies has made him a target, but he remains resolute in his determination to protect his family’s legacy and the rights of his daughter.
“I am calling on the Nigerian government, human rights organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to come to my aid,” Sodiq pleaded.
“My family has suffered enough. We cannot continue to live like this. Justice must be served, and our safety must be guaranteed.”
As the nation grapples with issues of land disputes, traditional practices, and community violence, Sodiq Olamilekan Lawal’s story serves as a poignant call to action. It is a reminder that the fight for justice and the protection of fundamental human rights must remain at the forefront of our collective consciousness.
