By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Saanu Community in Ijaye, Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State, has called on the Oyo State Government, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities to investigate the appointment of its Baale and allegations of unauthorized land sales, saying the developments have created tension and division within the community.

According to a statement issued by Saanu Community, Ijaye, residents alleged that the appointment of Mr. Saka Babalola as Baale was carried out without adequate consultation or notification of members of the community. The statement also alleged that large portions of community land had been sold without the knowledge or consent of residents and called on the appropriate authorities to clarify the process that led to the appointment. The community further appealed for an impartial investigation into the allegations and measures to restore peace and confidence in the area.

“We have serious concerns regarding the appointment of Mr. Saka Babalola as the Baale of Saanu Community,” the statement said.

The community alleged that residents who questioned or opposed the reported land transactions had been subjected to repeated police arrests and invitations.

The statement cited the case of Baba Afeez, who it claimed was arrested on June 30, 2026, by police officers accompanied by Mr. Yusuf, who was alleged to have purchased land from Mr. Babalola.

“He was charged before a court on the same day and remanded at the Iyaganku Correctional Centre, where he remained until he was granted bail the following day,” the statement alleged.

The community also expressed concern over the reported destruction of its health centre, which it said was built with the support of Murphy, alleging that residents had been deprived of an important healthcare facility.

According to the statement, the community possesses video recordings and other materials relating to the allegations and is prepared to make them available to the appropriate authorities to support what it described as a transparent and impartial investigation.

“This statement is not intended to incite violence or create unrest. Rather, it is a peaceful appeal for justice, accountability, transparency, and the protection of the rights of every resident of Saanu Community,” the statement added.

The community called on Governor Seyi Makinde, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, the Akinyele Local Government Council and other relevant authorities to investigate the allegations, protect the rights of residents and take steps to restore lasting peace in the community.

The allegations contained in the statement have not been independently verified by NewsExpress. There was no immediate response from Mr. Saka Babalola, the Oyo State Government or the Oyo State Police Command at the time of filing this report.

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