The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently address the worsening land grabbing crisis across the state.
Speaking during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on Tuesday, the Assembly urged all agencies handling land matters to expedite actions to protect property ownership.
The lawmakers also called for strict enforcement of sanctions against offenders and measures to ensure peaceful possession of land.
Advertisement
Presenting the report, Chairman of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and LASIEC, Oladipo Ajomale, noted: “Upon receiving the petition, the Committee invited concerned stakeholders and requested documents from all parties.
“We also visited the disputed land to ascertain the rightful ownership,” he added.
The petition arose from a dispute titled “Abuse of office, malicious destruction, land grabbing and undue conversion of property against Aluko Olusegun, the Vice-Chairman of Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area by Tijani Maruf Oludare.”
The Committee found that Mr. Aluko failed to confirm the land’s status with relevant government agencies.
It added that he relied on a purported Appeal Court judgment, despite prior demolition by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA).
Ajomale added, “Our findings show that Mr. Tijani Maruf, having obtained proper documentation, is the rightful owner and should take permanent possession of the land.
Mr. Aluko must desist from unlawful encroachment immediately.”
Another member, Mr. Akinsanya Nureni, emphasised: “Mr. Aluko’s actions must be punished to serve as a deterrent to others who may think of selling the same land to multiple buyers.
“This is about protecting Lagosians’ rights and ensuring justice prevails.”
The House unanimously adopted the Committee’s recommendations, with other members adding, “We commend Mr. Tijani Maruf for following due process and encourage all residents to respect the rule of law in property matters.”
