Fountain University, Osogbo, has expressed alarm regarding an alleged illegal encroachment on its land near the Agric Farm Settlement Area of Oke-Osun, Osogbo.
The institution described the development as unlawful and called for quick intervention.

In a statement signed by the Registrar, Sheriff Adenekan, on Thursday, the institution asked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Police Affairs, and the Inspector General of Police to intercede in the case.
It also requested well-meaning Nigerians to support its attempts to regain the land which is 124.349 hectares.
The institution asserted that it legitimately acquired the site under Yoruba Native Law and Custom in 2005 with the assistance of Osogbo community leaders and the Osun State Government.

The statement read, “The land is covered by a Certificate of Statutory Right of Occupancy issued on 5 January 2006. We had been in peaceful control of the land until October 2024, when a group of individuals reportedly forcefully entered the property.

“It was very shocking when certain individuals suddenly stormed the land and forcefully entered same in a very violent manner.”

The university stated the alleged land grabbers demolished signposts, vandalised facilities, and started laying out the area for sale.

It further alleged that despite reporting the problem to the police, three of its staff members and a contractor were instead detained and convicted.

“The university reported the incident to the nearest police station, and the matter eventually reached the Police 11th Zonal Headquarters in Osogbo,” the statement continued. “But to our disappointment, our staff were arrested while these hoodlums continue selling the land illegally.

“We had petitioned the Force Headquarters in Abuja on 27 November 2024, but had yet to receive any response. We are anxious over the lack of action against individuals purportedly selling the land.”

The school emphasizing that there was no court order invalidating its claim to the land, noted that the registration of the university with various government entities is founded on legal documents, including the Certificate of Occupancy.

It cautioned the public to be cautious and warned against purchasing land from illegal persons.

“Any individual or organisation attempting to buy any part of the land should exercise due diligence. Any such transaction is prohibited, and the institution disclaims any liability or compensation,” the statement emphasised.

While asking on security services to take fast action, the institution guaranteed that it will continue to explore legal options.

“We urge law enforcement agents, particularly the police, to uphold justice and protect our land. As an academic institution, we are committed to lawful and peaceful approaches, but we cannot allow criminals to destroy our property unchecked,” the statement concluded.

The institution emphasized its intention to defend its land and warned that it would explore all legal channels to guarantee that justice triumphed.