As you know, land grabbing is becoming one of the most controversial topics in society.
The reason is simple.
Due to pressing issues involving illegal documentation, Omonile, or unauthorized seizure of land from right owners.
This phenomenon made investors like you lose interest in buying and securing your next property.
No doubt that land grabbing has resulted in displacement, social conflicts, economic setbacks, and loss of heritage, which often affects vulnerable properties or communities.
In this case, powerful individuals or corporations acquire vast areas of land, sometimes through manipulation, bribery, or even force, leaving rightful owners with limited recourse.
Because of this, this article aims to provide real-life cases, and how you can prevent your properties from scams or intruders.
Understanding Land Grabbing
In a simple definition, land grabbing is defined as the acquisition of large tracts of land by individuals or corporations often illegally or unethically at the expense of rightful owners.
This can involve coercion, exploitation of legal loopholes, or unfair transactions that disregard the needs and rights of communities or individuals occupying the land.
In Nigeria, land grabbing often goes beyond the mere occupation of land.
It involves complex transactions, political influence, and sometimes even the use of force.
Often, the people affected by land grabbing are those least able to defend their rights due to limited financial resources or knowledge of the legal system.
Is Land Grab Illegal in Nigeria?
Well, the legality of land grabbing in Nigeria is nuanced.
Land use in Nigeria is governed by the Land Use Act of 1978, which vested all land ownership within the state, allowing the government to allocate land at its discretion.
Although this law was intended to regulate land use and prevent exploitation.
But it has unfortunately led to an abuse of power by some government officials who may allocate land to corporations or individuals, bypassing the rightful owners.
Furthermore, Nigeria’s judicial system, while active, faces challenges in efficiently resolving land disputes.
Many cases drag on for years, making it difficult for dispossessed landowners to seek timely redress.
Although courts have ruled in favor of displaced landowners in some cases, enforcement remains inconsistent, and perpetrators sometimes evade justice due to their political connections.
Causes of Land Grabbing in Nigeria
Weak Enforcement of Property Rights
Nigeria has a fragmented system for enforcing property rights, with various traditional and modern practices often clashing.
This weakness makes it easier for powerful entities to exploit legal gaps.
In rural areas, traditional land ownership systems operate alongside formal land laws, leading to conflicts and ambiguities.
Corruption in Land Administration
Corruption is a significant factor in land grabbing, with some officials accepting bribes to manipulate land records or overlook ownership disputes.
This issue is compounded by a lack of accountability within the land administration system.
Making it challenging for individuals to defend their claims against influential land grabbers.
Insufficient Legal Awareness
Many Nigerians lack awareness of property laws and legal procedures for land acquisition, leaving them vulnerable to fraud.
In rural areas, where legal education is limited, people are often unaware of their rights and are thus unable to protect their land from encroachment.
Agricultural and Economic Ventures
Nigeria’s government and private investors frequently target land for agricultural projects.
In some cases, land designated for community use has been allocated to private corporations, displacing locals.
While these projects aim to boost the economy, they often lead to land grabbing when land is seized without proper compensation.
Inadequate Land Registry System
Nigeria’s land registry is decentralized, with insufficient digital records and a lack of centralized data.
This disorganization creates opportunities for fraudulent land sales and duplicate title issuance.
Making it difficult for buyers to verify property ownership accurately.
Rising Property Market Value
The increasing value of urban land has incentivized unscrupulous actors to grab land wherever possible.
Lagos, for example, has seen property prices soar, leading to an increase in land-related disputes and grabbing incidents as individuals or corporations try to capitalize on the rising market.
Land Speculation
Speculation involves buying land with the hope that its value will increase over time.
While legal, speculation can lead to land grabbing when large plots are acquired without consideration for the rights of local communities.
Pushing out residents in anticipation of future developments.
Political Influence and Tribal Conflicts
Land grabbing is sometimes influenced by political affiliations or ethnic favoritism.
Tribal land ownership is common in Nigeria, and disputes frequently arise when government allocations conflict with traditional claims.
Mining and Resource Extraction
Nigeria’s mineral wealth attracts investors to areas rich in natural resources.
Mining corporations often acquire land for resource extraction, sometimes displacing communities without adequate compensation.
Infrastructure Projects
The government occasionally allocates land for infrastructure projects like highways or airports.
While these projects are essential, they sometimes involve expropriating land without adequate consultation or compensation for affected communities.
Foreign Investors and Globalization
Foreign companies seeking to invest in Nigeria often acquire large areas of land, sometimes exploiting legal loopholes or partnering with influential local figures.
These investments, though beneficial to the economy, have occasionally led to displacement and disputes.
How to avoid land-grabbing issues
Conduct Thorough Due Diligence
You must start with this.
Because due diligence is the foundation of secure land acquisition.
It involves verifying every aspect of the land’s ownership, history, and legal standing.
You can start by asking enough questions or go with an experienced realtor and surveyor to confirm if the land is genuinely for sale, and ensure the seller has legitimate ownership rights.
Steps:
- Confirm Ownership: Visit the land registry to verify the seller’s title deed and ensure it matches the property records.
- Check for Encumbrances: Look for any mortgages, liens, or legal disputes tied to the property. Encumbrances can complicate or invalidate ownership rights.
- Investigate Historical Ownership: Learn about past ownership to confirm that the land hasn’t been fraudulently transferred.
Real-life Example:
In 2021, a buyer in Abuja avoided a fraudulent transaction after discovering that the supposed seller had no ownership rights.
By checking the registry and consulting neighbors, the buyer learned that the land belonged to a family trust, which had not authorized the sale.
Hire a Qualified Real Estate Lawyer
Real estate transactions in Nigeria are complex, and having a lawyer knowledgeable about property laws is essential.
A good lawyer will conduct independent verification, review documents, and protect you from legal loopholes.
Steps:
- Engage a Lawyer Early: Before making any financial commitment, hire a reputable lawyer with experience in property law.
- Request Documentation Review: Have the lawyer examine all property documents, from title deeds to survey plans, to ensure they are genuine and legally sound.
- Inquire About Disputes: Your lawyer can investigate if there are any ongoing or potential land disputes.
Real-life Example:
A buyer in Lagos nearly bought land with a falsified title deed until his lawyer discovered that the document was altered.
The lawyer’s review helped him avoid a costly mistake and a potential legal battle.
Register Land with Relevant Authorities
Registering your land with the government is one of the most effective ways to secure ownership.
Official registration deters land grabbers and provides legal standing if disputes arise.
In Nigeria, obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy(C of O) is key.
Steps:
- Apply for the Certificate of Occupancy(C of O): The C of O is an official land ownership document. Apply through the relevant state land bureau.
- Keep Copies of All Documents: Store copies of registration documents, survey plans, and receipts from land transactions.
- Periodically Check the Land Records: Regularly verify that no unauthorized changes have been made to your land records.
Real-life Example:
In Ibadan, a landowner discovered that a developer had attempted to claim his land.
Thanks to his registered C of O, he was able to prove his ownership and retain his property.
Verify the Land Survey and Documentation
A land survey provides exact boundaries and details about the property, which helps to avoid disputes over land size or location.
Ensure that your land survey is accurate and corresponds with official records.
Steps:
- Get an Independent Survey: Hire a licensed surveyor to conduct an independent survey.
- Compare with Existing Records: Confirm that the survey matches the land records and any property maps at the land registry.
- Document Boundaries with Physical Markers: Mark property boundaries physically to deter encroachment and avoid boundary disputes.
Real-life Example:
A landowner in Enugu hired an independent surveyor who found discrepancies between the land boundaries on the map and the physical location.
This helped him avoid purchasing land that was encroaching on neighboring property.
Obtain Community Consent for Community Lands
In some cases, land that appears unowned is actually under the control of local communities or traditional rulers.
Before purchasing such land, obtain explicit consent from the community leaders and document the transaction carefully.
Steps:
- Engage Local Leaders: Meet with village chiefs, community heads, or family representatives who hold authority over the land.
- Get Written Agreements: Request a written consent form signed by community leaders.
- Keep Records of Transactions: Document all meetings, agreements, and any financial exchanges to prove that the transaction was legitimate.
Real-life Example:
A developer in Osun State worked closely with a local chief to acquire community land.
With the chief’s endorsement and signed agreements from community representatives, the developer successfully avoided disputes that could have led to land grabbing attempts.
Avoid Land in Conflict Zones or Disputed Areas
Land in areas with active conflicts or disputes is risky.
Such lands are often subject to unresolved ownership issues, which could later result in claims by other parties.
Steps:
- Research Local Disputes: Ask around or check local records to determine if the land is under dispute.
- Avoid High-risk Areas: If there are known community conflicts, it’s safer to look for land in stable regions.
- Monitor for Red Flags: Look for signs like heavily discounted land prices or evasive sellers, which might indicate issues.
Real-life Example:
A family purchased land in a conflict-prone area near Benue.
After realizing the community was experiencing boundary disputes, they resold the land before becoming entangled in any legal issues.
Be Aware of Traditional Land Titles
In rural and tribal areas, land is often governed by traditional titles and laws.
Understanding these titles is essential for avoiding land grabbing issues related to heritage or communal rights.
Steps:
- Consult with Local Authorities: Speak with traditional authorities to understand customary rights over the land.
- Investigate Family Claims: Ensure that no family members or descendants have claims to the land you’re purchasing.
- Validate with Formal Documentation: Even with a traditional title, try to formalize the land with a registered title.
Real-life Example:
In Ondo State, a buyer purchased land based on a traditional title. Later, descendants of the original family claimed ownership.
By validating his purchase through formal registration, he secured his rights over the property.
Use a Reliable Real Estate Agency
Buying land through a credible real estate agency can reduce the risk of fraud.
Agencies typically vet properties and provide legal documentation, which makes them a safer option for land acquisition.
Steps:
- Research the Agency’s Reputation: Choose agencies with positive reviews, industry certifications, and established track records.
- Ask for Property Documentation: A reliable agency will provide valid documents and facilitate title verification.
- Insist on Due Diligence: Even with an agency, conduct your own checks to ensure the property’s legitimacy.
Real-life Example:
A buyer in Lagos used a well-known agency to purchase a parcel.
The agency’s due diligence saved her from a potential scam, as they identified a discrepancy with the seller’s title documents.
Stay Updated on Local and National Land Policies
Land laws and policies are periodically updated, and staying informed can help you make legally sound transactions.
Steps:
- Monitor News on Land Policies: Follow news and legal updates regarding land ownership, especially changes to the Land Use Act.
- Attend Property Seminars: Engage in seminars or workshops on property ownership.
- Seek Advice from Legal Experts: Consult property lawyers about recent legal changes that may affect your land.
Real-life Example:
When the Lagos state government implemented new regulations for waterlogged areas, a buyer avoided a flood-prone property by consulting his lawyer on the legal risks of developing in high-risk zones.
Regularly Monitor and Visit Your Land
Physically visiting your property is essential to prevent encroachment.
Absentee landowners are more vulnerable to illegal occupation and land grabbing.
Steps:
- Visit Frequently: Make regular visits to inspect your property.
- Install Boundary Markers: Set up boundary markers, such as fences or signs, to establish ownership.
- Engage a Caretaker: For larger plots or land far from your residence, hire a caretaker to monitor the land.
Real-life Example:
In Ibadan, an absentee landowner discovered squatters on his property during an unannounced visit.
With prompt legal action, he was able to reclaim his land.
Land Grabbing Cases in Nigeria
The Makoko Case
In Lagos, the Makoko community faced land-grabbing pressures when the state government attempted to clear the area for urban redevelopment.
This case highlighted the vulnerability of informal settlements to displacement, sparking protests and advocacy for land rights.
Ogun State Land Acquisition for Development Projects
In Ogun State, several communities were displaced when land was acquired for a major agricultural project.
Despite initial promises of compensation, many locals claimed they received nothing, resulting in a prolonged legal battle.
Lagos Eko Atlantic Project
The Eko Atlantic project, designed as a luxury coastal city, involved reclaiming land from the ocean near Lagos.
While celebrated as a marvel of engineering, the project displaced fishing communities who claimed ancestral ties to the area.
Lekki Free Trade Zone Case(Lagos State)
In the Lekki area of Lagos, a case of land grabbing arose when the government allocated vast tracts of land to develop the Lekki Free Trade Zone(LFTZ).
This zone was created to attract foreign investment, but local communities claimed that they were neither consulted nor compensated fairly.
Traditional landowners in villages such as Ibeju Lekki were displaced without due process, leading to ongoing protests and legal battles.
The government argued that the land was being utilized for public interest, but residents insisted that they were inadequately compensated.
Outcome: Although the project proceeded, several community-led lawsuits emerged, pushing the government to consider fairer compensation and more transparent relocation policies.
The Chevron Case(Niger Delta)
In the oil-rich Niger Delta, Chevron, an American oil company, faced backlash over allegations of land grabbing.
Local communities accused Chevron of forcefully acquiring land for oil extraction without appropriate compensation or regard for environmental impacts.
The villagers argued that they were left with polluted land and water sources, which devastated their farming and fishing livelihoods.
Outcome: Following community protests and international attention, Chevron agreed to a settlement that involved paying compensation to displaced families and undertaking environmental cleanup efforts. This case highlighted the environmental and social impact of corporate land grabbing.
The Gbagada Estate Case(Lagos State)
In Gbagada, Lagos, residents found themselves in a legal battle when a prominent landowner attempted to reclaim land that had already been sold to multiple families.
The original landowner, using political connections, claimed that the initial sale was illegal and sought to repossess the property through the courts.
Families who had lived on the land for decades suddenly found themselves facing eviction.
Outcome: After a lengthy court process, some of the residents were allowed to stay, while others had to negotiate new terms with the landowner.
This case showcased how powerful individuals sometimes manipulate the legal system to reclaim sold land, leading to forced evictions.
Badagry Village Displacement(Lagos State)
In Badagry, Lagos, a group of traditional landowners was forcibly evicted when developers identified the land as valuable for future residential projects.
Community leaders stated that they received no prior notification or compensation, and their ancestral lands were sold to private developers with little transparency.
The displacement caused significant public outrage as the villagers struggled to find alternative housing and livelihoods.
Outcome: Despite local protests, the government sided with the developers, citing urban development priorities.
This case underscored the conflict between development and traditional land rights, especially in areas considered less economically developed.
The Ijaw Community Case(Bayelsa State)
In Bayelsa State, the Ijaw community faced land grabbing by oil companies that sought to exploit the region’s rich oil deposits.
Without legal consent or adequate compensation, these companies reportedly occupied large sections of Ijaw land, leading to environmental damage and economic hardship.
Community members resisted, citing their ancestral rights and the degradation of their lands due to oil extraction.
Outcome: This conflict attracted international media attention, and the government stepped in to broker a temporary solution.
However, tensions remain, and the case continues to highlight the environmental and social challenges posed by land grabbing in Nigeria’s oil-rich regions.
Abuja Airport Expansion Case(Federal Capital Territory)
As part of an infrastructure expansion project, the Nigerian government seized land from communities around Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The government argued that the land was essential for national development.
But displaced families protested the lack of compensation and the sudden forced eviction.
Many of these families were not relocated and were left without homes or land for farming.
Outcome:
Public pressure forced the government to reconsider its compensation package.
However, some families continue to struggle with displacement issues, underscoring the challenges that arise when land is seized for public infrastructure projects.
Ajah Community Eviction(Lagos State)
In Ajah, a developing area of Lagos, numerous residents were evicted after developers acquired their land to build luxury housing estates.
The residents argued that they had legally acquired their land decades prior and had established homes and businesses in the area.
However, developers claimed they had purchased the land from traditional authorities, creating a legal impasse.
Outcome:
Many residents filed lawsuits, but only a few received favorable judgments.
This case illustrates how developers use connections with local leaders to bypass formal land ownership and acquire valuable real estate.
The Ibadan Family Dispute Case(Oyo State)
In Ibadan, a land dispute within an extended family led to land grabbing accusations.
Some family members claimed that others were selling inherited land without consensus.
The case involved forged documents and alleged collusion with local land registry officials to transfer ownership fraudulently.
Outcome:
The court intervened to halt further sales until ownership could be resolved.
This case shows how family disputes over inheritance can lead to land grabbing, especially when some members act unilaterally.
The Magodo Phase II Development(Lagos State)
In Lagos, the Magodo Phase II estate faced controversy when government officials attempted to reclaim land from residents.
Claiming that it had been sold without proper authorization.
Residents had purchased the land through registered sales, only to discover that previous landowners disputed the transaction.
Outcome:
After years of legal battles, residents were allowed to keep their land, but not without facing the anxiety of potential displacement.
This case highlighted the impact of poor land records and fraudulent transactions on property security.
Abuja Maitama Land Scandal(Federal Capital Territory)
In Maitama, an upscale area of Abuja, the government allocated land for residential purposes.
But powerful individuals managed to re-acquire some plots by influencing land allocation officers.
These individuals sold the land at inflated prices, sparking public outcry and government investigations.
Outcome:
Some officials involved in the scandal were reprimanded, but the influence of powerful individuals in the land market remains a challenge.
This case emphasized the vulnerability of prime real estate to corrupt practices.
Benin Kingdom Lands(Edo State)
The Benin Kingdom, a historically significant area, has faced cases of land grabbing by developers and individuals aiming to capitalize on the area’s cultural and tourism potential.
Some land parcels were reportedly sold without the knowledge or consent of the community.
Outcome:
After the intervention of the traditional council, some of the transactions were reversed, but disputes continued.
This case highlights the importance of cultural heritage in land ownership.
Anambra State Community Displacement(Southeast Nigeria)
In Anambra, a dispute erupted when state authorities forcibly acquired community land for a government project without providing compensation or relocation.
Local families resisted, arguing that the land seizure violated their ancestral rights.
Outcome:
The community won a temporary injunction against the project.
However, tensions remain, as the government insists that the project is for public benefit.
This case demonstrates the ongoing struggle between community rights and state interests.
Ilorin Township Expansion(Kwara State)
In Kwara State, the expansion of Ilorin township resulted in the forced eviction of nearby villages.
The government claimed that the land was necessary for urban development.
However the displaced villagers insisted that they had not been adequately consulted or compensated.
Outcome:
After protests, some villagers were compensated, but others were still fighting for their rights.
This case shows the impact of urban expansion on rural communities and their land rights.
Okun Land Dispute(Kogi State)
The Okun community in Kogi State faced land grabbing when an investor claimed to have purchased a large tract for an agricultural project.
Community members, however, argued that they had not consented to the sale and that the land was critical to their livelihoods.
Outcome:
Community resistance slowed the project, and mediation is ongoing.
This case underscores the importance of obtaining community consent in agricultural land deals.
Cross River State Forest Reserves Case
In Cross River State, forest reserves were sold to private logging companies without consulting indigenous communities.
These communities argued that they relied on the forests for their livelihood and cultural practices.
Outcome:
Environmental activists joined the community’s cause, forcing the government to halt logging activities in certain areas.
This case illustrates the environmental and cultural impact of land grabbing.
Conclusion
Land grabbing remains a pressing issue in Nigeria, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, communities, and the economy.
Addressing this challenge will require collaboration among lawmakers, law enforcement, civil society, and individual landowners.