Benue State Ministry of Lands suspends all land consultants and contractors due to widespread irregularities, illegal land activities, and forged allocation documents

The Benue State Ministry of Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals has suspended all consultants and contractors involved in land planning and survey across the state, citing widespread irregularities and illegal practices.

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Commissioner Rev. Frederick Ikyaan announced the suspension during a meeting with leaders of the Ugondo Community at the residence of District Head Tyoor Terseer Ihwakar in Makurdi LGA.

The suspension follows a review of complaints and ongoing court cases involving forged signatures on allocation papers, illegal beacons, inflated settlement fees, unauthorized land reviews, and attempts to block rightful owners from accessing government-allocated land.

Dr. Ikyaan urged the public to verify the authenticity of allocation documents with the ministry before acquiring land, warning that illegal practices would no longer be tolerated.

The visit also led to an agreement with the community to harmonize settlement fees, ensuring consistency across all local communities.

Community leaders, including Zaki Joseph Akaana and District Head Zaki Terseer Ihwakar, praised the ministry for addressing anomalies and restoring order in land administration.

The Commissioner was accompanied by top ministry officials, including Surveyor General Surv. Emmanuel Nôngo, Directors of Administration, Lands and Town Planning, Deeds Registrar Terfa Yainjô, Assistant Surveyor General Surv.

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Joshua Ashir, Principal Administrative Officer Miss Mwuese Akange, and Information Officer Mrs. Nguungwan Leke.