Delta State authorities have issued a stern warning to individuals and communities, urging them to refrain from encroaching on government-acquired lands or risk facing legal consequences. Chief Goodnews Emamusi Obiodeh, the Commissioner for Lands, Surveys, and Urban Development, emphasized during a recent meeting in Asaba with representatives of the Atakiako (Egbedemi) family from Oleh in the Isoko South Local Government Area that ignorance of property laws offers no defense against prosecution.
Obiodeh underscored that the warning aligns with the state government’s firm stance on reclaiming all lands that have been unlawfully occupied.
He pointed out that under the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, lands acquired by the Governor for public use are state property, and individuals who ignore this can expect stringent legal actions.
The commissioner reiterated that illegal developments on state lands will not receive town planning approval, and any such construction, even if mistakenly approved, will be subject to demolition and subsequent legal action.
This caution comes in the wake of a recent operation at Dennis Osadebay University in Anwai-Asaba, where unauthorized structures were removed as a show of the government’s commitment to maintaining order and combating land grabbing.
Obiodeh noted that enforcing these measures is essential for protecting public interest and deterring individuals who misuse claims of ignorance to illegally sell or develop government property.
The commissioner’s address served as a reminder to potential buyers and developers that compliance with land verification processes is essential.
He advised that field offices of the Ministry of Lands, Surveys, and Urban Development are the proper channels for obtaining accurate land information to avoid legal repercussions.
Responding to the state’s stance, Prince Andrew Ogbodu, Regent and spokesperson for the Atakiako family, expressed that they had not been aware of the state’s acquisition of certain lands. He appealed for detailed information regarding the boundaries and extent of government-owned properties to enable his community to identify and respect state-controlled areas.
