In a momentous triumph for Ondo State, the House of Assembly has passed and signed into law the Bill to Prohibit Forceful Entry and Illegal Occupation of Landed Properties, passionately championed by Hon. Moyinolorun Taiwo Ogunwumiju.
This groundbreaking legislation stands as a beacon of hope, marking the first private bill enacted in such record time and reflecting Ogunwumiju’s unwavering commitment to tackling the critical land issues facing our communities.
Dr Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, the Honourable Attorney General of of the State hailed this achievement, proclaiming, “Today marks a record-breaking milestone with the passage and signing of Hon. Ogunwumiju’s bill into law.”
He extended heartfelt gratitude to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his steadfast support, particularly following the Executive Order he issued that established a task force dedicated to combating land grabbing.
Hon. Ogunwumiju underscored the urgency of this initiative, sharing, “After three months in office, I found that 85 percent of the concerns brought to my constituency office were related to land disputes.
This bill confronts these challenges head-on, deterring criminals and restoring integrity to land transactions across Ondo State.”
Beyond its immediate impact on land disputes, this landmark legislation promises substantial economic benefits. Ogunwumiju emphasized, “This private member bill will inspire confidence in our investors, reassuring them of the safety of their investments.”
The implications for the economy are profound. By establishing clear legal protections against land grabbing, the bill cultivates a secure environment for both local and foreign investors eager to engage in property development.
The requirement for all land sale agreements to be processed through certified legal professionals ensures legitimacy and minimizes disputes, making real estate transactions more appealing.
With tougher penalties for illegal land occupation, the bill aims to reduce the frequency of disputes, fostering a stable property environment that encourages more investment projects to flourish.
Furthermore, provisions mandating that all land sale agreements carry a stamp from the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS) will generate vital revenue for the state while formalizing transactions, leading to improved infrastructure and services that benefit all citizens.
As this legislation nurtures a safe investment climate, it is poised to ignite a surge in real estate development, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy.
The establishment of a dedicated task force to enforce the law enhances the legal framework surrounding land ownership and transactions, ensuring that property rights are clearly defined and safeguarded.
By penalizing illegal levies (Omo-Onile fees) and mandating official codes for real estate agents, the bill champions transparency and accountability, elevating the overall integrity of the real estate market.
“In a nutshell , Hon. Ogunwumiju’s anti-land grabbing bill is not just a protective measure for property rights; it is a transformative force that paves the way for a thriving investment landscape, fostering economic growth and stability throughout Ondo State.
This is indeed a historic moment that inspires optimism and progress for all citizens” Dr Ajulo concluded
