By Kayode Olabanji, Okitipupa

Tension has escalated in Ondo State following an alleged attack on Ilaje settlements by suspected youths from Ijebu Waterside Local Government area of Ogun State.

The attack, which took place in the early hours of yesterday, targeted the Ilaje communities of Ago Balogun and Ago Alaja, both located within the government-reserved Eba Island, a few kilometers from Atijere.

Eyewitnesses reported that over 20 assailants, allegedly accompanied by armed naval officers suspected to have been hired by the leadership of neighboring Ijebu communities, stormed the settlements wielding dangerous weapons.

According to Comrade Taiwo Ogunyemi, President of the National Union of Ilaje Youths (NAUIYO), the attackers forcefully evicted residents from their homes, causing widespread panic. Many residents sustained injuries, while several others fled to nearby communities for safety.

The incident has reignited concerns over the long-standing boundary dispute between Ondo and Ogun States. Ogunyemi condemned the invasion and urged both the federal and state governments to take immediate action to restore peace. He also called on the National Boundary Commission to implement a lasting resolution to the recurring territorial conflict.

Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the incident. However, residents are demanding urgent intervention to prevent further escalation.