The Ondo State House of Assembly is considering a bill that proposes harsh penalties for land grabbers, including up to 10 years imprisonment for forceful entry or illegal takeover of properties.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has further reinforced the fight against land grabbing by signing an Executive Order to prohibit such activities.
The order aims to end forceful entry, illegal occupation of landed properties, and fraudulent or violent conduct related to land in the state.
To strengthen enforcement, the governor has established a Task Force to protect property rights, uphold the rule of law, and ensure a secure environment for property owners and residents.
The proposed bill also includes severe penalties of up to 21 years imprisonment for selling family land without the consent of the family head or secretary.
Hon Moyinolorun Ogunwumiju, the lawmaker representing Ondo West Constituency 1, who sponsored the bill, spoke during a public hearing on the bill
Hon Ogunwumiju assured stakeholders that the bill would improve land administration, protect landowners, attract investors, and foster peace and development in the state.
He explained that the bill sought to regulate land dealings, protect landowners and buyers, penalise encroachers, and criminalise unregistered agents.
Ogunwumiju said the bill proposed penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for forceful entry or takeover of properties and up to 21 years for selling family land without the consent of the family head or secretary.
Speaker of the Assembly, Hon Olamide Oladiji, urged committee members and stakeholders to ensure the bill served the interests of the people.
He said the bill would maintain order in the state and impose necessary sanctions on offenders.
“Land grabbers pose a significant threat to property acquisition. Their activities ranging from trespassing, forceful occupation, and illegal sales of properties to multiple buyers must be confronted decisively.”
Majority Leader and Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, said the bill, would benefit the society at large
Ondo Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Kayode Ajulo said the bill would enhance land administration and complement the executive order signed by Governor Aiyedatiwa.
Stakeholders including traditional rulers called for full implementation of the bill when signed into law.
