In a bold move to tackle the growing menace of land-related crimes, the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday inaugurated the State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing.
At the inauguration held in Akure, the Governor read the riot act to land grabbers and other offenders, declaring a full-scale crackdown backed by new, stringent laws.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed serious concern over the increasing cases of violent land disputes, fraudulent resale of land, illegal occupation, and extortion by individuals operating under the notorious guise of “Omo-Onile.” He stated that these practices have caused displacement, community clashes, and disruption of peace in many parts of the state.
“Land is more than just property. It is our heritage, a birthright, and the foundation of community identity. We will not stand by and allow criminal elements to rob our people of what rightfully belongs to them,” the Governor said.
The recently passed law, which the Governor signed on December 30, 2024, provides severe penalties for various land-related offenses. These include:
• 21 years’ imprisonment for the unlawful resale of property without revocation,
• 10 years’ imprisonment for land grabbing and forceful entry,
• 7 years for violating real estate transaction regulations,
• 5 years or ₦5 million fine for illegal occupation, and
• 2 years’ imprisonment for collecting unauthorized levies.
Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the Ondo State House of Assembly for its swift legislative action and praised the Ministry of Justice for crafting a robust legal framework to address the crisis. He charged the newly inaugurated task force to enforce the law strictly, without fear or favour, and to work closely with relevant ministries, community leaders, and stakeholders.
He emphasized that the protection of land rights, peace, and responsible urban development are vital for the state’s future. “This Task Force must act decisively. Our people deserve protection from extortion, violence, and injustice. This administration will not fold its arms while communities suffer,” he asserted.
Members of the Task Force include:
• Dr. Kayode Ajulo – Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice
• Engr. Olawoye Ayorinde Abiola – Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing
• CP Wilfred Afolabi – Commissioner of Police, Ondo State
• Chief Adetunji Adeleye – Commander, Amotekun Corps
• Surv. Idowu Owolabi – State Surveyor-General
• Mr. Adesanya Adelana – Ministry of Justice
• Mr. Akin Ogundipe – Ministry of Physical Planning & Urban Development
• Mr. Maxwell Adelosoye – Representative of Local Government Authorities
• Surv. John Kemini – Representative of Local Government Authorities
• Olabanjo Aiyenakin, Esq. – Civil Society Organisation Representative
• Hon. Joseph Iranola Akinlaja – Community Representative (Central)
• Dr. Tunji Abayomi – Community Representative (North)
• Ebun Adegboruwa, SAN – Community Representative (South)
• Barr. Aiyegbusi Festus Olabode – Ministry of Justice (Coordinator/Secretary)
In his remarks, Attorney General Dr. Kayode Ajulo recalled the Governor’s earlier issuance of an Executive Order against land grabbing, which laid the groundwork for the new law. He said the establishment of the task force is timely and essential for restoring law and order in affected communities.
Hon. MoyinOlorun Ogunwumiju, who sponsored the bill in the House of Assembly, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support of the legislation, while the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands and Housing, Edward Ogumola, described the initiative as a major milestone in the fight against illegal land practices.
The event was attended by key government functionaries, including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, and Commissioner for Finance Mrs. Omowumi Isaac.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to protect lives, properties, and legitimate investments across Ondo State, stressing that land justice is essential for sustainable development and social harmony.
