The Alesa community in Eleme Local Government Area, host to the Port Harcourt Refineries, has inaugurated a government-backed, community-based Land Development Committee (ALDEC) to tackle land grabbing and fraudulent land sales. The initiative is aimed at protecting investors, ensuring proper land ownership, and promoting sustainable development in the area.
The committee was inaugurated by the paramount ruler of Alesa, Emperor JD Mkpe, who stressed the urgent need to safeguard land transactions and prevent underage or fraudulent sales. “If you sell any land without this committee’s knowledge, you do so at your own risk,” the ruler warned. He further encouraged investors to explore opportunities in Alesa, assuring that legitimate land acquisitions will be backed up to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy (CofO).
Mr. Emmanuel Olaka, chairman of the committee, emphasized that ALDEC is designed to streamline land processes, promote transparency, and enhance the reputation of Alesa as a secure investment hub. “This committee will work with the council of chiefs to ensure land matters are handled properly. Our goal is to support investors while preventing disputes and illegal sales,” Olaka said.
The initiative has received strong backing from local leaders and stakeholders, including youth and women leaders, who highlighted the importance of protecting community lands and promoting equitable development.
The committee also aligns with ongoing projects such as the Alesa Sustainable Green Smart City, supported by My-ACE China, Mayor of Housing. The project aims to enhance infrastructure, attract investment, and foster economic growth in the region.
By implementing a community-based land oversight system, Alesa sets a precedent for other communities in Rivers State and across Nigeria, demonstrating that local governance and structured land management can effectively curb land fraud while boosting investor confidence.
