Traditional rulers and stakeholders from the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State have strongly asserted that the oil-rich Eba Island remains under the jurisdiction of Ondo State, rejecting claims that it belongs to Ogun State.
The rulers made this declaration during a media conference held at the Ilaje local government headquarters, citing historical records and geographical markers that date back to the colonial era.
The secretary of the committee representing the group emphasized that the natural and historically recognized boundary between the Mahin Kingdom and its neighbors is the unique point where the red and white waters of the Furafar River meet.
According to the rulers, this legitimate demarcation has been acknowledged for generations and must be respected by all parties involved.
They expressed a firm commitment to defending the territorial integrity and cultural heritage of the Ilaje people against any encroachment.
While asserting their ownership, the Ilaje leaders clarified that they welcome the exploration and development of oil wells in the Eba area.
They stated their readiness to support lawful economic activities that promote prosperity for the state and the nation.
However, to prevent further conflict, the traditional rulers called for an urgent high-level intervention from the National Boundary Commission (NBC), the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), and various security agencies.
The stakeholders specifically requested that the National Assembly and security heads conduct an on-site visitation to the island.
They urged that representatives from both the Tiju community and the governments of Ondo and Ogun States be involved in a transparent process to resolve the boundary dispute once and for all.
