The Ondo State Anti-Land Grabbing Taskforce has issued a stern warning to land grabbers to desist from their illegal activities or face the full weight of the law, as it reiterated its commitment to safeguarding property owners across the state.
The warning was issued during the Taskforce’s first meeting of the year, held at its office in Oke-Eda, Akure, where renewed strategies were outlined to curb land-related crimes in the state and strengthen enforcement efforts in 2026.
The Chairman of the Taskforce and the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, OON, in his address, declared that 2026 would be a decisive and difficult year for land grabbers in Ondo State. He warned that anyone who violates the Ondo State Properties Protection and Its Documentation Law, 2024 would face the full weight of the law, stressing that the successes recorded in 2025 were only the beginning, as sufficient time had been given for offenders to desist from the unlawful acts.
According to the Chairman, “The grace period has expired with 2025. Any land grabber operating in Ondo State should know that this year will be different. Recall that I earlier stated that we have compiled the names of individuals our investigations have confirmed to be deeply involved in land grabbing, turning themselves into veterans of illegality. In 2026, we are going all out against them, and the law will be enforced strictly without compromise.”
He further warned that the Taskforce would no longer tolerate illegal land sales, multiple sales of land by owning families, intimidation of lawful owners, or any form of forceful land acquisition, adding that offenders would be arrested, prosecuted, and made to face the consequences of their actions.
The Chairman also applauded the Governor for allaying long-standing fears associated with land-related fraud through the enactment of the Ondo State Properties Protection and Its Documentation Law, 2024, which criminalises land grabbing and related offences. He stressed the Governor’s continued support in providing the necessary resources to ensure the effective operation of the Taskforce.
“In my capacity and on behalf of the Committee, I sincerely appreciate Mr Governor for his commitment to this initiative. Through the enactment of this law, he has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the well-being of the people of the State and the protection of their lawful property rights. With this law in place and the full backing of government, investors can now operate without fear, property owners can be assured of protection, and the era of impunity for land grabbers in Ondo State is effectively coming to an end.” The Chairman said.
The committee equally commended the Governor for his sustained commitment to the anti-land grabbing initiative, particularly the approval of crucial operational resources for the Taskforce, noting that such support would further enhance effectiveness and ensure prompt response to complaints across the State.
Members present at the meeting included the Commissioner for Works, Land and Infrastructure, Engr. Olawoye Abiola, former House of Representatives member representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency, Hon. Iranola Akinlaja, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Dr Tunji Abayomi, the Surveyor-General of Ondo State, Barr. Banjo Ayenakin; Surveyor Idowu Abiodun; ACP Olawoye Ezekiel, who represented the Commissioner of Police; and Officer Obaade, who represented the Amotekun Commander, among others.
