Sehin family warns against third-party deals over Olokola FTZ land
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Sehin Royal Family of Ipare in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State has rejected claims that its ancestral land is under the authority of the Aheri Kingdom, warning government and prospective investors against dealing with third parties over the proposed Olokola Free Trade Zone project.
The family said it was not opposed to the development of the Free Trade Zone or investments by Dangote Industries Limited and other genuine investors, but insisted that it must be directly involved in decisions concerning its land.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by representatives of the family, the group dissociated itself from the outcome of a September 5 meeting in Zion-Pepe, saying it was neither invited nor represented at the gathering.
The family maintained that the Ipare/Alape axis was its ancestral property and had never been part of Aheri Kingdom, citing historical records, court judgments, survey plans, farming activities and fishing rights as evidence of its claim.
It further stated that Ipare’s traditional affiliation was with Mahin Kingdom, with links to the Akenneyin Dynasty, and argued that no other kingdom had the authority to negotiate or make decisions concerning the land on its behalf.
The royal family warned that any attempt by government officials or investors to bypass what the family described as the recognised custodians could trigger legal disputes, urging stakeholders to resolve all issues concerning land acquisition and development through direct engagement.
It called on prospective investors to deal with accredited representatives of the Sehin family on matters relating to access, enumeration, acquisition and compensation, while also demanding representation on technical committees and other stakeholder engagements.
The family said it remained open to discussions with the government, investors and neighbouring communities, stressing that its position was aimed at protecting its land rights while supporting peaceful development and genuine investment in Ilaje.
