The Lagos State House of Assembly has directed the Lands Bureau to clarify past land allocations and address ongoing land disputes, while also approving compensation for communities whose land was acquired for public projects

The Lagos State House of Assembly has taken decisive action to address persistent land-related issues within the state.

Also read: Lagos Assembly Calls For Full Implementation of Tenancy Law

During a plenary session last Thursday, the House resolved to summon the Lagos State Lands Bureau to provide detailed explanations regarding previous land allocations and the recurring challenges arising from them.

This decision followed the adoption of recommendations from the Committee on Rules and Business concerning a petition from the Oriba Community in Epe Local Government, seeking to join the petition of the Ladaba Community.

The adopted recommendations mandate the Lands Bureau to appear before the House with comprehensive documentation to clarify the status of state-acquired lands.

Furthermore, the House directed the bureau to issue excision/allocation letters to 68 affected communities and ensure their Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) are processed within one month of the House’s resolution.

While commending the committee’s efforts in securing justice for the affected communities, some members proposed an increase in their compensation from the initially recommended 20% to 25%.

Following the presentation of the report, the House unanimously adopted the recommendations as its resolution by asking the bureau to appear before it with proper documents to explain the status of lands acquired by the state,”

However, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, acknowledged the merit of increased compensation but emphasized that the state government has existing plans.

Ultimately, Speaker Obasa endorsed the allocation of 20% (2,000 hectares) of the 10,000 hectares acquired by the state government as compensation.

To ensure effective implementation of these resolutions, Speaker Obasa further directed the committee to collaborate closely with the Lands Bureau, the Office of the State Surveyor General, and the New Towns Development Authority.

The Lagos State Lands Bureau plays a crucial role in the state’s administration, overseeing land allocation, C of O issuance, land registration, and the management of state-owned lands.

Its core objectives include promoting transparent land transactions, facilitating urban development, supporting economic growth through organized land ownership, resolving land disputes, and implementing policies for optimal land utilization while safeguarding public interests.