The Oyo State Housing Corporation has issued a stern warning to all allottees of undeveloped plots in Owode Housing Estate Phase II, Apata, Ibadan, urging them to commence development immediately or risk losing their lands. The directive comes amid concerns over rising estate insecurity in Oyo State.

The Corporation, led by Chairman Hon. Demola Omotosho, conducted a fact-finding mission to the estate after residents raised complaints that bushy, abandoned plots had become hideouts for criminals carrying out burglary, rape, and violent attacks.

Although the estate was inaugurated nearly 50 years ago, only 20% of it has been developed, leaving close to 1,000 hectares untouched. Omotosho said this neglect created an unsafe environment for residents who had developed their plots.

A recent violent attack on a 76-year-old resident prompted government intervention. Omotosho reminded allottees that the Oyo State Housing Corporation Law of 2001 allows revocation of plots not developed within two years or not fully paid within 12 months.

“These lands were allocated decades ago. Some allottees have held their papers for 25 years without developing the plots. The law is clear: undeveloped plots after two years are subject to revocation. We are not revoking out of sentiment—it is the law,” Omotosho said.

To boost security, the government will establish a Police Post, deploy Amotekun security, and install solar-powered streetlights across the estate. Significant development is expected before June 2026, with similar progress in Ajoda New Town, where 1,000 units are planned.

Residents, including Deacon Idowu Aladejobi, welcomed the move, noting that abandoned plots had facilitated criminal activities. He called for a permanent security presence, especially an Amotekun team.

Other residents expressed optimism that the inspection would mark the beginning of meaningful security and development interventions in the long-neglected estate.

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Announced during the commissioning of Phase 1, Section 1 of the 750-kilometre project on May 31, 2025, President Bola Tinubu stated that no land approvals within the highway corridor would be spared, warning state governments—particularly Lagos—to halt new permits for developments on reclaimed or illegal island properties.

This policy move has stirred unease in Nigeria’s real estate and construction sectors, where stakeholders warn of significant losses to legitimate investors. Landmark Group’s demolished $200 million beachfront resort is seen as a key example of the fallout already underway.

“The federal government’s warning, if not handled transparently, risks disrupting ongoing projects, stalling investment plans, and eroding confidence in coastal development,” said one industry observer.

While some support the government’s move to curb unregulated developments along the lagoon shoreline—seen as contributors to coastal erosion, flooding, and displacement—others argue it could trigger a wave of litigation from owners with valid land titles.

Legal and property experts are divided on the legality of the revocation. Property lawyer Makinde Jolaosho noted that while the federal government’s authority is broad, clear communication with stakeholders is vital to avoid reputational and financial backlash. He added that federal interest in such strategic infrastructure often supersedes state authority under the law.

However, critics cite the Land Use Act of 1978, which grants state governors the power to allocate and revoke rights of occupancy. They argue President Tinubu’s directive infringes on this provision.

But proponents counter with Section 49 of the same Act, which exempts federal lands from state control, as well as the Lands (Title Vesting) Act of 1993, which vests lands within 100 metres of the 1967 shoreline and all reclaimed waterfronts in the federal government.

“Federal agencies can enforce control over these zones legally,” said an estate surveyor who preferred anonymity. “But the uncertainty created by this announcement could negatively impact property values and investor sentiment.”

He warned that potential losses could rise sharply if revocations are executed without compensation or clarity, urging developers and investors to conduct detailed due diligence before committing to projects along federal highway corridors.

As tension builds between state authorities, federal agencies, and private investors, analysts say the outcome could redefine the balance of power in Nigeria’s land administration landscape—especially in prime coastal regions.

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The decision, which affects nearly 4,800 properties flagged for non-compliance, comes after the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) launched a widespread enforcement operation against owners who had failed to meet their statutory obligations for up to four decades.

At a media briefing in Abuja, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Land at the FCTA, confirmed that the enforcement began on May 26, targeting government bodies, companies, and individuals alike.

He revealed that the presidential intervention provides a 14-day window for affected titleholders to regularize their dues, but not without financial consequences. Penalties of up to ₦5 million will be imposed depending on the property’s district:

₦5 million for properties in the Central Business District,

₦3 million for Maitama, Asokoro, Guzape, and Wuse II,

₦2 million for Wuse I, Garki I, and Garki II,
—all in addition to the original outstanding ground rent.

The issue of unregistered property transfers also came under scrutiny. Individuals who acquired properties without updating ownership records have been given the same two-week deadline to obtain Minister’s Consent and properly file their Deeds of Assignment with the FCT Land Administration.

Meanwhile, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reinforced the administration’s stance, urging all property holders yet to pay their Rights of Occupancy or Certificates of Occupancy to do so within the same 14-day period—or risk revocation.

The FCTA says these measures are crucial for maintaining the integrity of urban planning and funding infrastructure development across the capital city.

“We urge all stakeholders to treat this as a final opportunity. Property owners must begin to take responsibility if we are to sustain the pace of progress in Abuja,” Nwankwoeze stated.

This move marks a turning point in the administration’s land policy, blending enforcement with a final olive branch to restore compliance.

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The NBA has urged the governor to reverse the order, stating that it contravenes the Land Use Act and the Nigerian Constitution.

In a communiqué jointly signed by the NBA Gombe Chairman, Barrister Benjamin Sati, and the Legal Adviser, Barrister Abubakar Bafeto, the association appealed for the immediate reversal of the executive order. The communiqué, obtained by our correspondent, highlighted the legal violations of the order, calling for adherence to the Land Use Act and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).

NBA’s Appeal for Reversal and Legal Adherence

The Gombe Bar emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of landholders, stating in part:
“We urge Your Excellency to take the following steps:

Reversal of the Revocation: We call for the immediate reversal of this declaration as it violates the Land Use Act and established constitutional provisions.
Suspension of Documentation: All documentation processes related to this revocation should be suspended to prevent unnecessary litigation.
Enforce Legal Protections: Ensure that all land revocations strictly follow legal frameworks, safeguarding landholders’ rights.”
The association reiterated its commitment to defending the rights of landholders and promoting justice in land governance. The NBA stressed that addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a fair and equitable society in Gombe State.

Calls for Improved Judicial Welfare

In addition to the land use issue, the Gombe Bar called on Governor Yahaya to prioritize the welfare of judicial officers in the state. The association’s communiqué underscored the need for better housing, medical services, operational vehicles, and the provision of modern equipment to reduce the burden on judicial officers.

The NBA commended the state government for completing the Shariah Court of Appeal Complex and constructing a new High Court Complex. However, it urged the government to further support judicial officers by providing secure and designated quarters, particularly for High Court judges and magistrates within the metropolis.

Judicial Equipment and Vehicle Concerns

The Gombe Bar raised concerns over the condition of vehicles used by judicial officers, many of which have been in use for over 13 years. The association stressed the importance of replacing these vehicles to facilitate the efficient delivery of justice.

The NBA Gombe Branch remains firm in its call for the protection of landholder rights and improved working conditions for the state’s judicial officers.

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