Jamiu Balogun, a landowner in Orile Sagamu, Ogun State, has cried out for help after being attacked and shot allegedly by some palace chiefs from Epe community in Sagamu over a land dispute.

Speaking from his hospital bed, Balogun explained that the incident happened on Friday, September 12, 2025, while he was on his wife’s two plots of land along Ikenne Road where she was building shops. According to him, a bus and four motorcycles arrived at the site carrying armed men whom he recognized as chiefs from Epe community.

“They came down with guns and other weapons. I identified Jogodo, Lisa Epe, Balogun, Councillor, and some security men among them. They suddenly attacked me, shot me in the leg, and used machetes on me. They even dragged me on the floor. I don’t have any issue with them, I only know them because we live in the same area. My wife bought the land and we were just working on her shops when they stormed the site. They even destroyed her containers,” Balogun recounted.

He added that though he was first taken to OSUTH, he had to leave due to challenges and is now receiving treatment in a private hospital. “I want Nigerians to help me so that I won’t die from this injury,” he pleaded.

Backing his claims, Prince Abdul Fatai Anoko, one of the family members that sold the land to Balogun’s wife, explained that the land dispute had earlier been reported to the Akarigbo of Remoland, who instructed both parties to maintain peace until his return from a trip. He alleged that despite this directive, the Epe community chiefs invaded the land, destroyed shops, and eventually attacked Balogun.

“We have video evidence of their repeated destruction. Just yesterday, they shot one of our clients. We are crying out to authorities to save us because our lives are now in danger,” Prince Abdul said.

Similarly, Chief Abdulateef Adewale Anoko condemned the attack, describing it as one of several attempts by the Epe community to forcefully seize their land. “For weeks, we have seen thugs invading our properties, destroying valuables, and now they have attacked a land buyer. Though some of the perpetrators have been arrested, we are begging government and security agencies to follow this case through. They have been threatening us and even the victim, and we fear for our safety,” he warned.

Confirming the incident, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Omolola Odutola, said four suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack while investigations are ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department. “The victim was on the land when he was shot on the leg. Four suspects have been arrested, and SCID is investigating,” she stated.

The OSA Movement, under the leadership of its Convener, Solomon Sunday Olarewaju, has today issued a statement of profound appreciation for the recent appointment of 1,200 political assistants by His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun. The Movement hails the initiative as a landmark achievement in a genuine commitment to empowering citizens at the grassroots level and bringing governance closer to the people.

In a press briefing held over the weekend, Olarewaju lauded the governor’s strategic move, describing it as a testament to his all-inclusive and people-centered approach to leadership. “The appointment of five political assistants from each of the 236 wards across Ogun State is not just a political gesture; it is a clear and decisive action that shows Governor Abiodun’s dedication to strengthening democratic governance from the ground up,” Olanrewaju stated. “This initiative effectively bridges the communication gap between the state government and our communities, ensuring that the voices of ordinary citizens are not only heard but acted upon.”

According to the Founder, OSA Foundation, the new political assistants will serve as crucial conduits for development, tasked with articulating the needs of their respective wards and providing accurate feedback to the government. This, he noted, will ensure that policies and projects are a direct reflection of community needs and aspirations, thereby fostering a more responsive and effective government. “This model of governance empowers our people, giving them a direct stake in shaping the policies that affect their daily lives. It is a true revolution in grassroots politics,” he added.

Solomon Sunday Olarewaju emphasized that the initiative perfectly aligns with the principles and objectives of the OSA Movement, which has always championed the cause of grassroots participation and equitable development. He commended Governor Abiodun for fulfilling his electoral promise to carry every ward along in his administration’s development programs. “This is leadership with a vision,” Olarewaju said. “It shows that Governor Abiodun is not just a leader in name but a leader who is genuinely committed to building a prosperous Ogun State for all, leaving no one behind.”

The OSA Movement of Ado-Igbesa constituency concluded by pledging its full support for Governor Abiodun’s administration and its forward-thinking initiatives. “We are confident that this move will accelerate the delivery of democratic dividends and usher in a new era of unprecedented growth and development in every corner of our state. We stand in full support of His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, as he continues to transform Ogun State,” Olarewaju concluded.

Femi Oyewale’s “Brand-New Beginnings” Launches on Selar and Amazon

Publisher of Sahara Weekly Magazine and Sahara Online, Femi Oyewale, has released a powerful new book, “Brand-New Beginnings: Finding God in the Midst of Endings,” now available on Selar and Amazon.

The book speaks directly to anyone who has faced sudden loss, heartbreak, or the silence of unanswered prayers. With compassion and authenticity, Oyewale weaves together real-life–inspired stories, biblical truths, and reflective lessons that remind readers that endings are not final—they are God’s way of preparing the stage for something greater.

Structured in five uplifting chapters—When the Curtains Close, The Silence Between Seasons, Rising from the Rubble, The Birth of the New, and Living with Expectation—the book takes readers on a journey from pain to purpose. Each chapter includes reflection questions and key takeaways designed to help readers not only process their struggles but also embrace hope.

“Life has a way of surprising us with sudden endings—jobs end, relationships fracture, dreams collapse,” Oyewale explains. “But what feels like the end is often God’s way of setting the stage for a brand-new beginning.”

Oyewale’s writing offers encouragement to the “weary heart and silent sufferer,” blending personal insights with timeless biblical examples. From Joseph’s pit to Job’s ashes and Ruth’s loss, the stories in the book point to one truth: every ending can become a doorway to a new beginning when God is involved.

This inspiring release comes at a crucial time, as many are navigating uncertainty and searching for renewed faith. Whether in seasons of silence, rubble, or transition, Oyewale’s words equip readers to trust God’s process and step into fresh hope.

Brand-New Beginnings: Finding God in the Midst of Endings is available now on Selar and Amazon.

 Selar –  https://selar.com/785xml5554

For anyone standing at the edge of an ending, Oyewale’s message is clear: Your story isn’t over. The best is yet to come.