Protecting Landowners - Oyo State Governor pledges to fights back against Land Grabbing

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has implemented robust measures to combat the rising issue of land grabbing within the state. According to the new guidelines, anyone found unlawfully occupying or seizing another person’s land or property will face prosecution under the authority of the Rule of Law Enforcement Agency and the newly formed Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force.

During a stakeholders’ forum organized by the Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED) at the University of Ibadan, Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal, representing Governor Makinde, emphasized the administration's dedication to safeguarding property rights and shielding residents from illegal land acquisitions.

Highlighting the severity of land grabbing, Makinde remarked, “Illegally taking possession of another individual’s land is a criminal offense. Such actions will no longer be tolerated and are now punishable under the state’s anti-land grabbing law.”

The governor also expressed concern over environmental issues, such as unregulated cattle grazing, and pledged to ensure offenders are held accountable. Legal proceedings for such violations will be managed under the supervision of Justice Aderonke Aderemi, who heads the Rule of Law Enforcement Agency.

Beyond addressing property disputes, the stakeholders’ meeting also sought to revive traditional Yoruba values like respect for elders, honesty, and hospitality, which many speakers noted have been eroded over time.

Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, commended OYMASED for its efforts in driving socio-economic progress and announced plans for public enlightenment campaigns to further these goals.

Justice Aderemi called for a cultural and moral reorientation, urging citizens to uphold the law and embrace values that align with Governor Makinde’s vision for institutional reform and a more orderly society.