Nigerians React Wike Declares Those Without Certificate Of Occupancy Will Lose Their Land

In a bold and controversial move, Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has announced that individuals without a valid Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) for their lands will lose ownership, prompting widespread reactions across the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking during a routine inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Port Harcourt, Wike made it clear that the state government would no longer tolerate landholders failing to meet the legal requirement of possessing a C-of-O. He emphasized that after the grace period for payment, the government would begin to reassign lands to other interested parties, sending a strong message about the importance of formal land ownership documentation.

Wike’s statement is set against the backdrop of significant land-related issues within the state, where illegal land acquisition and disputes over land ownership have been ongoing problems. The Governor stressed that a well-documented land ownership system was crucial for proper planning, development, and accountability.

The announcement has sparked a range of reactions from Nigerians, especially landowners and developers, who express a mixture of concern and support for the governor’s decision.

Support for Wike’s Decision

Some Nigerians, particularly in the real estate sector, have expressed support for Wike’s stance, calling it a necessary step to ensure proper land administration in the state. They argue that the lack of clear land ownership documentation has often led to conflicts and the illegal occupation of land.

“This move will help clear up so many land disputes that have been lingering for years. Many people acquire land without proper documentation, which complicates issues when there are disagreements,” said a real estate developer based in Lagos. “A proper land administration system will improve the property market and create transparency, which is important for both individuals and businesses.”

Advocates for better land administration in Nigeria also welcomed the Governor’s call for more stringent land ownership regulations. They believe that enforcing the need for a Certificate of Occupancy will encourage more formalized land transactions and prevent land grabbing, especially in urban areas.

Concerns and Criticism

On the other hand, there has been significant criticism, especially from landholders and rural dwellers who feel that the decision could adversely affect them. Many of these individuals do not have the means to pay for the legal documentation, leading to fears of losing their property. Some argue that Wike’s declaration might disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, particularly in rural areas where land documentation has often been overlooked due to bureaucratic delays.

“I’ve been living on this land for years, but I haven’t been able to get my C-of-O. Now I’m being told I could lose my land. It’s an unfair policy that will harm people like me who don’t have the financial means to navigate the bureaucracy,” lamented a landowner in the Rivers State capital.

Opponents of the decision have also raised concerns about the process of issuing C-of-Os and whether it is truly accessible to everyone, especially those in rural and underserved communities. They believe the government should make provisions for easier access to land documentation and waive or reduce fees for low-income landowners.

Legal and Social Implications

Wike’s strong position on the matter also has legal implications, as it raises questions about the rights of landowners and whether the government has the legal authority to repossess land from individuals who may have had it for years without a C-of-O.

Legal experts have pointed out that while the government has the right to ensure that land is properly documented, there must be safeguards in place to prevent abuse. They argue that the government should consider alternatives such as providing assistance to landowners in securing their certificates rather than simply revoking ownership.

Looking Ahead

As the deadline for C-of-O payments approaches, many are watching closely to see how the Rivers State government will enforce its policy and whether it will lead to significant changes in land ownership and governance in the region. With the state’s economy increasingly dependent on infrastructure and real estate development, the Governor’s decision may signal a broader shift towards a more formalized and regulated land market in Nigeria.

While the policy has drawn both support and criticism, what remains clear is the Governor’s commitment to shaping a more orderly and transparent land administration system in Rivers State. Whether it will lead to a fairer and more efficient system for all landowners or exacerbate existing inequalities remains to be seen.

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