In a harrowing tale of survival and resilience, one Adenuga Saheed Adekunle, has been forced into exile after a brutal attack by land grabbers in Ofada Community in Obafemi Owode Local Government area of Ogun State, Nigeria.
His only “crime” was standing up for a widow who had been dispossessed of her land.
Our correspondent who got his contact from an undisclosed source said during an interview the victim said the ordeal began in April 2024 when he took up a widow’s case and, with the help of a local NGO, fought tirelessly to ensure justice was served.
According to Adenuga, After months of advocacy, she successfully reclaimed her land in June. However, the victory was met with violent retaliation.
"On June 25, armed land grabbers stormed my residence, wielding sticks, iron rods, and stones.
“They destroyed windows and wreaked havoc on my property. Fearing for my life, i managed to escape through the back gate and fled to Sango Ota, eventually making my way to Cotonou, Benin Republic, on June 26.
“ I remained in hiding there for 12 days before going underground again.”
Also, his case is not an isolated one. Other members of the NGO who supported the widow were also targeted.
Some fled to Ghana, while those with visas sought refuge in the UK and Canada. The land grabbers, determined to eliminate opposition, continued their threats, making it impossible for Adenuga to return home.
He has since abandoned his properties and belongings, uncertain of he will ever be able to return safe.
“I had to choose between my life and my belongings,” Adenuga said. “I lost everything, but at least I am still alive.”
