Oyo Reaffirms Commitment to Curb Land Grabbing, Clarifies Role of Real Properties Protection Agency

Oyo Reaffirms Commitment to Curb Land Grabbing, Clarifies Role of Real Properties Protection Agency

The Oyo State Real Properties Protection Law Agency Task Force Unit has reiterated its determination to curb land grabbing and related offences across the state, while clarifying public misconceptions about its operations and mandate.

The clarification was made by the Chairman of the Task Force Unit, Justice Olajumoke Aiki (Rtd), during a live television interview in Ibadan, where she emphasized that the agency’s role is investigative rather than adjudicatory.

“This agency does not rule on land matters, as it is not a court of law or a mediation centre,” she explained. “Our core mandate is to conduct thorough and comprehensive investigations into land and related property disputes under the Oyo State Real Properties Protection Law 2016, and to take appropriate actions based on our findings.”

Collaborative Effort to Enforce the Law

Justice Aiki highlighted that the agency works in close collaboration with several security and government institutions to ensure justice, fairness, and adherence to due process.

Among its key partners are the Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Ministry of Justice, the Office of the Surveyor-General, the Ministry of Lands, the Bureau of Physical Planning and Environmental Development, and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.

“This collaborative approach reflects the vision of His Excellency, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, who is committed to ridding Oyo State of land grabbing and unlawful acquisition of property,” she said.

Justice Aiki added that the agency’s legal officers from the Ministry of Justice ensure compliance with the rule of law during investigations and in the prosecution of offenders.

“Our lawyers carry out due diligence and prepare legal advice based on the outcomes of our investigations to determine who should be charged to court for trial,” she said.

Public Enlightenment and Access to Justice

The retired jurist also disclosed that the agency has intensified its public enlightenment efforts through radio, television, and print media to educate residents on the dangers and consequences of land grabbing.

She recounted that the agency’s awareness campaigns have reached even beyond Oyo State:

“Someone from Osun State once called from Osogbo after hearing our jingle on a radio station broadcasting from Ibadan. Our outreach cuts across all zones of the state,” she noted.

Justice Aiki further explained that the process of submitting petitions to the agency remains free of charge, adding that Governor Makinde has directed that petition forms and legal representations for criminal cases should attract no cost to complainants.

“We are even working on a web portal that will enable people to obtain and submit petitions online, reducing the need for physical appearances except when necessary,” she disclosed.

Milestones and Progress

Speaking on the agency’s performance, she revealed that since full operations began in 2023—after initial setup activities in 2022—the agency has recorded impressive progress.

“Over 3,500 forms have been collected, more than 2,500 returned, and close to 1,000 petitions have been concluded in the past two years,” she said.

Justice Aiki also expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for his consistent support and provision of resources necessary for the agency’s smooth operations.

“With the help of God and the support of our amiable governor, we continue to overcome challenges. The governor has provided us with the necessary logistics, including the release of operational vehicles approved for the agency on November 3, 2025,” she stated.

Trained Officers, Distinct Roles

She stressed that the agency’s task force operatives are seasoned professionals who receive regular training to enhance their investigative efficiency.

Addressing perceived overlaps with the Olubadan of Ibadanland’s Committee on Land Matters, Justice Aiki clarified that there is no conflict of functions between both bodies.

“While the Olubadan’s committee focuses on mediation, our agency handles the criminal aspects of land-related offences under the law,” she explained.

Warning to Perpetrators

Justice Aiki concluded by warning individuals and groups engaged in land grabbing, fraudulent land transactions, and related offences to desist, stressing that the agency remains resolute in ensuring fairness, justice, and due process in all petitions brought before it.

“The law will take its course against anyone found guilty of violating the Real Properties Protection Law. We will continue to uphold transparency and accountability in every case,” she affirmed.