The 4 Brigade Nigerian Army in Benin City has announced plans to demolish unauthorized buildings on its land in Oghede and Iyanomo, located in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. The military also warned Osazebare Aghahowa, the local enogie (duke), accusing him of violating an out-of-court agreement by continuing to sell army land to estate developers, hotel owners, and private individuals.
According to Capt. Polycarp Oteh, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 4 Brigade, the Nigerian Army, legally acquired the land in 1966, completed a survey, and obtained a Certificate of Occupancy in 1994. The brigade expressed concern over ongoing encroachment by some community members, particularly under the encouragement of the enogie, which threatens the peace process to resolve the dispute through dialogue.
Despite efforts to settle the matter peacefully, including accepting an out-of-court resolution, the army reports that community leaders have ignored the agreement to maintain the status quo. Instead, they have continued selling portions of military land, including areas used for live firing exercises, posing serious safety risks. The brigade stated that these actions may force it to demolish illegal structures within the Ekehuan Cantonment to protect its property.
The army also alleged that the enogie forged a document falsely claiming the military had surrendered the land to the community. The brigade clarified that its ownership is backed by legal documents, including Certificate of Occupancy No. 11751, issued on April 26, 1994, under Edo State laws.
The 4 Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security in Edo State and warned that it will not tolerate misinformation or attempts to undermine its authority. The military urged the public to refrain from encroaching on its land to avoid legal consequences.
