In a move to reinforce long-standing ties and prevent potential conflict, the governments of Ekiti and Ondo States have taken proactive steps to resolve lingering boundary disputes affecting several border communities.
This joint decision emerged from a high-level strategic meeting held in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Thursday. The meeting was led by Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, who headed a delegation to meet with her Ondo State counterpart, Dr. Olaide Adelami.
The peace meeting was convened in response to rising tensions and protracted land disputes in border areas, with a strong focus on reaching lasting, peaceful resolutions.
Communities identified as conflict zones include Emure Ekiti and Supare, Ugbesi Ekiti and Igasi Akoko, Ahan Ayegunle Ekiti and Oke Agbe, as well as Imesi Ekiti and Irun Akoko, among others.
Speaking after the meeting, Mrs. Afuye emphasized that both states have shared a cordial relationship since their establishment in 1976, and stressed that no dispute should be allowed to disrupt this enduring harmony.
There is no gain in violence or bloodshed. Dialogue is the best path forward,” she said in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje. She further reiterated Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to peace, regional cooperation, and cross-border security.
“We must adopt a spirit of give and take. I appreciate Ondo State’s openness to this peace initiative, and I believe together we can prevent further crises,” she added.
Echoing her sentiments, Dr. Adelami praised the Ekiti State delegation for championing the peace talks and pledged Ondo State’s full support in resolving the disputes.
This meeting sends a strong message to our people—we are united and ready to work together,” he said. “These boundaries are mere lines; our cultural and traditional bonds remain strong. What matters is unity and cooperation.”
He noted that technical committees from both states would convene to clearly identify and demarcate contested areas. He also referenced a 2023 visit by the National Boundary Commission, during which steps were taken to address similar disputes and establish clear tripartite boundary points.
Peace is within reach,” Dr. Adelami affirmed. “Our collaboration will inspire confidence in affected communities and ensure long-term stability.”
Following the meeting, boundary technical committees were tasked with sensitizing local residents on the importance of peace, ahead of a final expert review.
Present at the meeting were members of the Boundary Technical Committees, including the Permanent Secretary, Ekiti State Deputy Governor’s Office, Mr Abayomi Opeyemi; his Ondo State counterpart, Mr Idowu Ojo; Ondo State Surveyor-General, Surveyor Idowu Owolabi; Ekiti State Surveyor-General, Surveyor Adebayo Faleto; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mr Victor Adeniyi; Executive Secretary, Ekiti State Boundary Commission, Surveyor Olalekan Olajide; and his Ondo State counterpart, Surveyor Francis Daramola, among others.
