The Ilubamito family of Onigbongbo, Maryland, Lagos, has once again raised alarm over what they describe as a fresh wave of unlawful property demolition. The family claims this destruction occurred without any court order, prompting them to call on Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Inspector General of Police, and the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command, to step in and uphold justice.
Their lawyer, Mr. Victor Kolade, had earlier submitted a formal petition on March 4, 2025, alleging criminal damage, forgery, land fraud, and unlawful entry by unnamed individuals. In response to these claims, the Kuyasi Awuse family, through their legal counsel, Mr. Yinka Muyiwa, issued a letter on April 16, 2025, denying all accusations and labelling them as baseless.
Despite these denials, the Ilubamito family insists that more demolitions were carried out recently. According to them, the act was executed by a group of aggressive men allegedly acting on orders from the opposing family. Several buildings were destroyed in the process.
The family expressed concern over the growing disregard for legal processes. They noted that both parties had been invited by police authorities to present evidence of ownership. The Ilubamito family complied, submitting court documents in their favour. They claim the Kuyasi Awuse family neither appeared nor provided any proof of ownership.
In their statement, the Ilubamito family stressed their commitment to peaceful resolution and respect for the law. They said they own a valid judgment by Justice Adeyinka Morgan of the Lagos High Court. The ruling, delivered in suit No. AB/31/57 (Joseph Atunrase and Bamgbola Amao v. Kamil Ismail and six others), declared the Ilubamito family the rightful owners of approximately 30.98 acres at Ismail Estate, Idiroko, including properties at No. 713 Iya Oloye Crescent and Nos. 291 to 297 Ikorodu Road, Maryland.
Justice Morgan had ruled that the disputed land belonged to the late Aminatu Ilubamito and was not part of the Alashe Chieftaincy Family territory. The court also nullified a purported sale of the land, declaring it invalid.
The Ilubamito family explained that their late ancestor lawfully leased part of the land to Mr. Kamil Ismail, popularly known as “the Japanese.” However, they allege that people claiming ties to the Kuyasi Awuse family have repeatedly entered the properties and demolished structures without legal permission.
While noting that they have refused to retaliate, the family appealed for immediate action from the state government and security authorities. They seek a thorough investigation, prosecution of those behind the destruction, and full restoration of their rights to the properties.
