By Charles Maduka
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has inaugurated a task force to tackle land grabbing across the state’s 18 local government areas.
During the inauguration, the governor announced tough penalties for land-related crimes. Offenders found guilty of unlawful resale of land could face up to 21 years in prison, while those involved in forceful acquisition or encroachment may receive up to 10 years.
He expressed concern over the rising number of land disputes, illegal occupations, fraudulent property sales, and imposition of unauthorized charges by individuals posing as landowners. These activities, he said, have caused displacement, violence, and instability in various communities.
“Land is more than just property. It is our heritage and a foundation of community identity,” Aiyedatiwa said, vowing to protect the rights of legitimate landowners.
He also praised the state House of Assembly for passing a land grabbing bill that supports the enforcement of these penalties. The new law includes sanctions such as 10 years’ imprisonment for land grabbing, five years or a fine for illegal occupation, and up to 21 years for unauthorized resale of land.
State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo, recalled that the bill was signed into law on December 30, 2024. He noted that many communal conflicts in the state are rooted in unresolved land ownership disputes.
The newly formed task force includes representatives from the state ministries, security agencies, civil society, and community leaders. Members include Ajulo, Special Adviser on Infrastructure Olawoye Abiola, Commissioner of Police Wilfred Afolabi, Amotekun Commander Adetunji Adeleye, and Surveyor-General Idowu Owolabi, among others.
The governor said the team is expected to work with communities to enforce the law and restore order in land matters.
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