A Benin High Court, under the leadership of Justice Peter Akhihiero, has ruled against the Edo State Government’s decision to revoke the Certificate of Occupancy for Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s land in Amagba Village, Oredo Local Government Area.
In the judgement, delivered on September 23, the court found that the revocation of Ize-Iyamu’s land rights was unconstitutional and violated the Land Use Act. The case, brought forward by Ize-Iyamu and I.O. Farms Limited, challenged the legality of the government’s actions, which took place on July 7, 2021, and were publicized in the Vanguard newspaper.
The court also awarded Ize-Iyamu N5 million in general damages, stating that the actions of the Edo State Governor, the Attorney General, and the Edo State Geographic Information Service amounted to trespass when they encroached on his land without proper legal backing.
Furthermore, the court issued a perpetual injunction, preventing the government and its agents from further interfering with Ize-Iyamu’s land.
The ruling not only nullifies the government’s revocation but also emphasizes the importance of following due process in land matters.