By Hosea Parah, Abuja
The leadership of Ilaje Mahin in Ondo State has reaffirmed that Eba Island is an integral part of Ilaje land, declaring that the community will not cede its territory or “God-given resources” to any other entity amid emerging reports of oil discovery in the area.
In a statement issued on Wednesday from Igbokoda on behalf of the Ilaje Mahin Communities of Atijere Kingdom, community leaders clarified that Eba Island is historically and administratively under Ilaje jurisdiction. They emphasized that the island is inhabited by Ilaje people and has long been governed through the recognized traditional structures of Atijere.
The statement was released on behalf of the Palace of the Amapetu of Mahinland and signed by Dr. Prince Ola Judah Ajidibo Akinyomi.
According to the community, the traditional institutions led by the Amapetu of Mahin and the Molokun of Atijere constitute the legitimate indigenous custodians of the island. The leaders stressed that these authorities represent the established governance framework through which access, engagement, and consent must be secured for any oil exploration or production activities.
While reiterating their firm stance on territorial ownership, the Ilaje people expressed support for responsible oil exploration within the community. They commended the Federal Government’s efforts to boost national oil production and align with broader economic development goals.
However, the statement underscored several conditions for cooperation. Community leaders warned that any misrepresentation of Eba Island’s territorial identity would be “inaccurate and potentially destabilizing.” They also noted that host community participation is both a legal and moral requirement under Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act, adding that engagement without proper recognition of established traditional leadership structures could trigger avoidable tension.
The Ilaje leadership called on relevant federal authorities to ensure that any boundary-related concerns are resolved through constitutionally recognized mechanisms and in strict adherence to due process.
Reaffirming their commitment to peace and lawful engagement, the community pledged constructive partnership with government agencies and duly authorized exploration companies, provided that their historical rights and traditional institutions are respected.
The development comes amid heightened interest in offshore and coastal oil prospects across Nigeria’s oil-producing regions, with communities increasingly asserting their role in decisions affecting local resources and development.