By Ayodele Oni
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has declared that 21 years imprisonment await anybody involved in land grabbing and encroachment in the state.
The governor maintained that time has come to launch a firm and decisive war against land grabbing and related crimes in the State, as he inaugurated the State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing on Wednesday.
“Land is more than just property. It is our heritage, a birthright, and the foundation of community identity.
“We will not stand by and allow criminal elements to rob our people of what rightfully belongs to them.”
The Governor expressed concern over the increasing cases of violent land disputes, illegal occupation, fraudulent resale of land, and the imposition of unregulated charges by individuals operating under the guise of “Omo-Onile.”
He noted that such activities have led to displacement, conflict, and a breakdown of order in both rural and urban areas.
“The law, recently passed by the Ondo State House of Assembly, stipulates the penalties which include 10 years’ imprisonment for land grabbing and forceful entry, five years in prison or ₦5 million fine for illegal occupation, seven years’ imprisonment for violating real estate transaction regulations, 21 years’ imprisonment for the resale of property without proper revocation and two years’ imprisonment for collecting illegal levies.”
Aiyedatiwa commended the House of Assembly for its proactive legislative action, describing the law as timely and visionary.
He also applauded the Attorney-General and officials of the Ministry of Justice for their diligence in drafting a legal framework that now empowers the State to clamp down on land-related crimes.
He charged members of the newly formed Task Force to enforce the law without fear or favour, urging them to work closely with relevant ministries, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure proper implementation.
The Governor assured the people of Ondo State of his administration’s commitment to protecting lives, properties, and investments.
He emphasized that peace, justice, and responsible development are essential for the progress of the State.
The 14 member task force is headed by
Kayode Ajulo, Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Ondo state.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, recalled that on Monday, December 30, 2024, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa signed into law the bill that laid the foundation for the establishment of the Task Force being inaugurated.
The Commissioner lamented the rising tension and conflicts across communities caused by land disputes, stressing that most communal clashes in the State have their roots in unresolved land ownership issues.
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