Ejiyan-Ekiti Seeks Compensation and Recognition Over Military Barracks Relocation

The people of Ejiyan-Ekiti in Ekiti State, South West Nigeria, have called on the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede, to ensure full compensation for families affected by the relocation of the 148 Army Barracks from their land.

In a statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Ejiyan-Ekiti Development Council, Chief Adepoju Ajibare and Dele Borishade, the community emphasized that the land originally designated for the Nigerian Army Barracks in Ipoti-Ekiti belongs to Ejiyan-Ekiti. The statement clarified that the barracks, established in 2013 before Ejiyan-Ekiti was granted autonomy, was situated on indigenous land.

The community lamented that approximately 75% of the agreed compensation for economic trees and other valuables destroyed on the land remains unpaid despite over a decade passing since the project began. They urged authorities to expedite the payment to alleviate the financial hardship imposed on the affected families.

“We therefore appeal that whatever would be the final decision or remedial action on the location of this project, either in terms of retaining the military barracks or replacing it with another institution, the now autonomous community named Ejiyan-Ekiti should be recognized as the traditional owner of the location,” the statement read.

Furthermore, the community criticized the relocation of the barracks to Ikere-Ekiti, arguing that the decision lacks justification. They urged Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Senate Leader Hon. Adeyemi Bamidele, and other stakeholders to intervene and ensure justice for Ejiyan-Ekiti.