Adedeji Adebanjo, a youth leader in Epe, Lagos, said over 20 communities in the division were subjected to incessant invasions by land grabbers in 2024.

Mr Adebanjo disclosed in Epe on Thursday that the activities of land grabbers were alarming and disheartening, lamenting the devastating impact it had on lives and property.

“Over 15 farmers, landowners, and other residents lost their lives in tussles instigated by land grabbers last year.

“The land-grabbing menace in Epe Division has become a source of great concern, leaving communities in constant fear and distress,” he said.

Mr Adebanjo listed some of the affected communities as Ilamija, Ibonwon, Ilara, Odo-Egiri, Odomola, Imokun, Araga, Ketu-Ejirin, Ibeju-Lekki, Lakowe, Akodo, and Eleko, among others.

He called on the Lagos State government to strengthen existing laws against land-grabbing to address the menace and its associated dangers.

“Land grabbers are not government task forces or agents. The government must eradicate their unscrupulous activities from our communities.

“Enough is enough. The law must take its full course against anyone unlawfully encroaching on private or communal land,” he said.

Mr Adebanjo stressed the need for the authorities to prioritise the safety and security of residents and landowners, expressing optimism for a year devoid of land-grabbing incidents.

(NAN)