The Edo State Government has intensified its clampdown on illegal land acquisition and misuse of public property, sealing off a brothel discovered within the premises of a primary school in Esan West Local Government Area.
Eugene Okolosie, the State Coordinator for the Protection of Government Property, disclosed this during a press briefing in Benin City on Thursday.
He revealed that over 2,000 illegally occupied plots have been reclaimed so far, with authorities making efforts to restore order and accountability.
Okolosie expressed concern over the widespread encroachment on government lands, revealing that an estimated 150,000 houses in the state have been constructed on land belonging to the government.
He urged prospective landowners to verify property status through the Edo Geographic Information Service to avoid falling prey to fraudulent land transactions.
“Our public institutions have been badly affected,” he said. “About seven percent of the historical moat has been encroached upon, and many schools have been targeted by land grabbers.”
He highlighted the case of Ambrose Alli University, where significant tracts of land were reclaimed after investigations uncovered forged documents used to seize school property.
“The community alerted us that their signatures had been forged. We intervened and were able to recover roughly 90 percent of the land, including those designated for educational use.”
One of the more shocking discoveries was at Ujuele Primary School, where a brothel had been illegally constructed on school grounds.
The facility has since been shut down by the authorities, and discussions are ongoing with Governor Monday Okpebholo on repurposing such reclaimed properties.
In another incident in Iyoba, a local community allegedly divided school land, selling half to private individuals.
“We even found a kitchen set up beside a classroom. It’s unacceptable for children to study while the smell of stew distracts them. That matter is under investigation, and suspects have been summoned,” Okolosie added.
He further revealed that in just two months, the agency has received more than 3,000 complaints from communities across the state concerning unauthorized occupation of government property.
He assured that all verified cases would be pursued, and the properties recovered.
Okolosie commended Governor Okpebholo for providing legal support to the agency, a move he said would strengthen the prosecution of offenders and ensure that justice is served.
Leave a Reply