Edo Government warns land grabbers, encroachers over Obagie acquisition

The Edo State Government has issued a stern warning to land grabbers, encroachers, and speculators involved in illegal land transactions within Lot A of the Obagie Acquisition area, popularly known as Coral City, in Benin City.

In a statement from the Office of the Governor on Wednesday, the government said its attention had been drawn to the unlawful activities of individuals selling, buying, or developing lands in the designated area without authorization.

According to the statement, the warning serves as the final notice to all those involved to desist immediately from selling, building, or purchasing any land from speculators within Lot A of the Obagie Acquisition.

The government emphasized that the entire Obagie Acquisition remains the property of the Edo State Government. However, it noted that plans are ongoing to return Lots B, C, and D of the area to their rightful owners and occupants.

This initiative, the statement explained, aligns with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration’s commitment to regularize properties on government-acquired lands and ensure that legitimate owners regain their lands.

The government cautioned that any individual or group caught engaging in illegal land transactions or construction activities within Lot A would face dire legal consequences.

It further stated that all structures erected on the designated government land would be demolished, and those responsible would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The statement reaffirmed the government’s determination to end land grabbing and encroachment across the state, describing such actions as criminal and disruptive to the state’s urban development plans.

The Edo State Government urged the public to verify all land-related transactions and engage only with authorized agencies to avoid falling victim to speculators and fraudsters.

The statement concluded by warning that this would be the last notice issued before the commencement of strict enforcement and demolition of illegal structures in the affected areas.