By Emmanuel Daniji

A boundary signpost bearing the inscription “Welcome to Lagos State” has sparked a dispute between Ogun and Lagos states, with the Chairman of Ifo Local Government Area, Idris Kusimo, insisting that the location belongs to Ogun State.

Kusimo has called on Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene, warning that the signpost could confuse residents and motorists about the actual boundary between the two states.

The disagreement centres on the Yakoyo–Ojodu Road around Yakoyo in Isheri-Ojodu Ward. According to the Ifo council chairman, the disputed location falls within Ogun State, and the placement of the signpost raises questions about the territorial limits of both states.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Kusimo said the matter needed urgent attention to prevent further confusion and tension among residents of communities along the boundary.

He linked the dispute to a road recently constructed by the Ogun State Government under Governor Dapo Abiodun, arguing that the installation of the Lagos signpost along the route had heightened concerns over which state controls the area.

Kusimo also called for the disagreement to be resolved through official boundary records, approved survey coordinates and relevant government documents.

However, the Lagos State Government has defended its ongoing installation of boundary signposts across locations bordering neighbouring states.

In a statement posted on its official X account, the government said the exercise was based on specifications provided by the state’s Surveyor General.

The government explained that the initiative was designed to clarify boundary locations, reduce ambiguity between communities and neighbouring states, and prevent disputes arising from alleged boundary encroachment.

Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary in the Lagos Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, said the signposts were being installed to reflect boundaries in line with the position of the Office of the Surveyor General.

Meanwhile, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said he was unaware of the specific disagreement involving the Yakoyo–Ojodu signpost when contacted about the matter. He advised that the relevant ministry should be approached for further clarification.

The dispute highlights the importance of clear and mutually recognised boundaries between Lagos and Ogun, where expanding communities and road developments can make questions of territorial jurisdiction particularly sensitive.

For residents who live, work and travel across the adjoining communities, an official resolution based on verified records could help prevent further misunderstandings and ensure that both states respect their established boundaries.