The recent discovery of oil on Eba Island has triggered a significant boundary disagreement between communities in Ogun and Ondo states.
Traditional rulers from both regions have asserted ownership over the territory, leading to heightened tensions as each side presents historical and administrative arguments to support its position.
The dispute centers on the precise location of the oil-bearing area relative to the interstate border. Ogun State authorities and associated groups maintain that the site falls within their jurisdiction, specifically linking it to areas like Ogun Waterside Local Government, and view the find as a key opportunity for economic advancement, including access to federal derivation funds for oil-producing states.
In response, representatives from Ondo State, including community associations such as those from Atijere, have strongly contested these claims.
They argue that Eba Island has long been managed as part of Ondo’s forest reserves, with no prior formal objections from Ogun, and emphasize historical records dating back to colonial times to affirm their state’s rightful control.
This emerging conflict underscores the broader challenges of interstate boundary definitions in Nigeria, particularly in resource-rich zones.
Both sides have called for calm to prevent escalation into communal unrest, while the situation highlights the need for formal resolution through relevant authorities to ensure equitable resource management and regional stability.
