Ekiti Journalist Seeks Oyebanji’s Intervention After Ifaki Chief Demolishes Building

A journalist with the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State (BSES), Kelechi David, has appealed to Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, to intervene following the demolition of his four-bedroom apartment in Ifaki-Ekiti, Ido/Osi Local Government Area of the state.
The property, located along Esure Road in the Ona Oko Ika area of Ifaki-Ekiti, was reportedly demolished on the directive of the Olokun of Ifaki-Ekiti, Chief Tunji Olaiya, who said the action was carried out based on a valid court judgment.
Kelechi, who serves as the Chairman of the BSES Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, said he legally acquired the land in 2019 from Adeyeye Olajide, whom he believed had rightful ownership of the property through his late father, Moses Olajide.
According to the journalist, the house project was funded through personal savings and loans, with the structure only recently completed and set to be roofed before it was brought down.
He described the demolition as shocking and painful, alleging that it was carried out without prior notice, warning, or any form of engagement.
Kelechi further claimed that more than 2,000 blocks and several other building materials were destroyed during the exercise.
“This is a house I laboured hard to build through loans and years of savings. It is disheartening that it was brought down without any form of dialogue,” he lamented.
He also disclosed that the same building had earlier collapsed mysteriously in 2024, forcing him to begin reconstruction in 2025, only for it to be demolished again.
Chief Defends Demolition
Reacting to the incident, Chief Tunji Olaiya confirmed that he ordered the demolition, insisting that the action was carried out in line with a court ruling.
According to him, the land dispute dates back to 2016, when judgment was reportedly delivered in favour of his family.
Olaiya clarified that the legal action was instituted against the original seller, Adeyeye Olajide, and not directly against the journalist.
He added that individuals who bought plots from the disputed land were allegedly invited for discussions and possible resolution, but failed to cooperate.
“We acted based on a court order. The judgment granted us possession of the land, and we gave ample time for affected parties to come forward,” he said.
The traditional chief also warned that other structures erected on the disputed land may face similar demolition, as his family moves to fully reclaim the property.
Residents Demand Government Intervention
The incident has since generated concern among residents of the community, with many calling on the Ekiti State Government to urgently step in to prevent further tension and ensure justice for all parties involved.
Observers say the matter highlights the growing need for proper land verification, transparent dispute resolution, and stronger protection for property buyers in the state.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Ekiti State Government regarding the demolition.