“Let Ikirun Youths Breathe”: Tension Escalates as Land Dispute with Minaret University Sparks Outcry
A passionate and urgent appeal has been issued by the concerned youths and residents of Ikirun over a festering land dispute with Minaret University, warning that the situation is reaching a critical boiling point. In a strongly worded statement titled “A Cry for Justice and Caution: Let Ikirun Youths Breathe,” the youth accused the university management of deliberate provocation and warned of looming unrest if the issue remains unresolved.
On April 18, 2025, tensions flared when university officials, backed by civil defense officers, allegedly blocked a vital path used by residents to access their homes.
According to the youths, this was “only the latest in a series of provocations,” further inflaming an already fragile situation.
“We, the concerned youths and residents of our beloved town, write to you not out of rebellion, but out of deep frustration and a desperate need to be heard,” the statement read. “Despite our patience and peaceful efforts, the situation has only deteriorated.”
In the emotional open letter addressed to the town’s elders and leaders, the youths highlighted six key points underscoring their grievances, ranging from neglect, betrayal, and fears of being displaced in their ancestral land, to the rising cost of abandoned building projects.
“The youths you frustrate today can become the danger you never anticipated tomorrow,” the group warned, emphasizing that they are the future of Ikirun and must be included in its development.
“A future cannot be built by undermining those destined to inhabit it. Ale l’eru (the night carries heavy consequences).”
They reminded local authorities that leadership is temporary and must be exercised with fairness and accountability. “Let us all remember that tomorrow belongs to no one. The dynamics of life are unpredictable.”
Sounding an ominous alarm, the group said the situation, if mishandled, could surpass the violent clashes previously experienced in the Ilobu region. “Ameeru himself once stated plainly that this is Ikirun versus Ikirun, indicating he has nothing to lose. But we, sons and daughters of Ikirun, stand to lose everything if this continues.”
The statement rejected any notion that the affected residents were outsiders to the community.
“Many of us have purchased land, built homes, and established our lives in this community… Why are we being treated as strangers on our own soil?”
Pointing to precedents in other regions, they asked, “Why should our situation be different?” noting that it is common in other towns for communities to live peacefully within or near school premises through mutual agreements.
“We urge a peaceful dialogue with the university to allow us to continue our projects. It’s been over a year now, and our building materials are deteriorating.”
The letter concluded with an emotional plea for final clarity and justice. “We are tired of endless meetings that yield no solutions. If the message is that we no longer own land or homes there, then please state it plainly. Let us then await the judgment of the Almighty—because if earthly judges fail to deliver justice, the Judge of all judges surely will.”
Calling on traditional rulers, community elders, and government authorities, the statement pleaded for restraint and a peaceful resolution.
“Protect your people. Preserve our peace. Hear the cries of the youth before it’s too late. Let justice prevail so that Ikirun may thrive in true unity and harmony.”
