The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba (Dr) Clement Adeyeye Haastrup, has successfully facilitated the release of Dr Muheeden Popoola, Principal of the Leventis Foundation Agricultural School, Ilesa, from prison custody.
Dr Popoola had been remanded on Thursday, 24 July 2025, by Magistrate Mrs Shiyanbola of Ilesa Magistrate Court 4, following his arraignment over an alleged trespass on land associated with the school.
In a public statement released via his official Facebook page on Friday, Oba Haastrup reaffirmed his firm position on land matters, stating:
> “My administration maintains a zero-tolerance stance on land grabbing in Ijesaland. We will not condone any injustice, particularly where institutions critical to our community’s growth are concerned.”
He further emphasised that the welfare of Ijesaland and its institutions remains a top priority, assuring residents that his leadership will always uphold fairness and due process.
The monarch’s intervention followed Dr Popoola’s arrest by the State CID in Osogbo after a petition was filed by one Mrs Adedigba, who accused the principal of unlawful occupation of farmland reportedly linked to the Leventis Foundation Agricultural School.
Following his court appearance, Dr Popoola was remanded in Ilesa Prison after being unable to immediately satisfy stringent bail conditions, which included two sureties of N500,000 each, proof of ownership of landed property within Ilesa, three years of tax clearance, a utility bill, and a valid National Identification Number.
According to sources, the matter was the final case heard by the magistrate before the court adjourned for the day.
Upon learning of the development while on an official visit to the United States, Oba Haastrup directed prominent Ijesa stakeholders to intervene promptly, ensuring the principal’s release without delay. This move underscores the monarch’s unwavering commitment to protecting Ijesaland’s interests.
It will be recalled that the Owa Obokun had earlier, during his formal installation by Governor Ademola Adeleke, declared his resolve to combat land encroachment across the kingdom.
Dr Popoola’s release signals a significant turn in the ongoing dispute, with the monarch once again positioning himself as a proactive guardian of justice and institutional integrity in Ijesaland.
