Oyo Lawmakers Seek Central Land Records to Curb Disputes
Motion Calls for Proper Documentation of Government-Acquired Lands
The Oyo State House of Assembly has called for all Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), parastatals and Local Government Areas that have acquired land to submit comprehensive documentation to the Office of the Surveyor-General to prevent recurring land disputes across the state.
The call followed a motion moved by Hon. B.O. Adeola (Iseyin/Itesiwaju) and co-sponsored by the Leader of the House, Hon. S.A. Onaolapo (Ogbomoso South).
Lawmakers stressed that proper documentation and centralized record-keeping of government-acquired lands would enhance transparency, improve land administration and reduce conflicts between communities and government authorities.
Government Land Acquisitions Linked to Development
Presenting the motion, the lawmakers noted that land acquisition is a legal process through which land ownership is transferred from one party to another through purchase, inheritance, grants or compulsory government acquisition for public purposes.
They observed that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has witnessed several land acquisitions aimed at driving development projects across Oyo State.
These include the development of new towns and cities as well as the expansion of Government Residential Areas (GRAs), initiatives lawmakers described as key to urban renewal and economic growth in the state.
According to the motion, such development efforts have contributed to improved infrastructure and enhanced the overall quality of life for residents.
Gaps in Documentation Fuel Land Disputes
Despite the developmental benefits, the House expressed concern that disputes over government-acquired land continue to arise due to inadequate documentation and poor record management.
Lawmakers explained that land acquisition involves several procedures including identification, valuation, negotiation, compensation payment, transfer, registration and documentation.
However, they observed that in many cases, some MDAs conduct surveys and even obtain Certificates of Occupancy without properly lodging the documents with the Office of the Surveyor-General.
This lapse, they warned, creates uncertainty about land boundaries and ownership claims among families and host communities.
Surveyor-General’s Office Central to Land Administration
The motion highlighted the critical role of the Office of the Surveyor-General in land administration as provided under the Oyo State Survey Law, 2008 (as amended).
The office is responsible for conducting perimeter surveys, preparing topographical survey plans, designing layouts, georeferencing maps and registering survey plans.
Lawmakers noted that failure to properly register and document acquired lands has contributed to numerous challenges including litigation, community conflicts, investment deterrence, development delays and environmental degradation.
Assembly Recommends Central Database of Government Lands
To address the problem, the House urged the executive arm of government to ensure that all MDAs, parastatals and local governments with land acquisitions submit detailed records to the Surveyor-General’s office.
The required information should include the location and boundaries of the land, acquisition date and method, purpose of acquisition, current usage status and relevant survey plans and certificates.
The lawmakers also recommended the creation of a comprehensive database of all government-acquired lands to improve accuracy and transparency in land management.
Commendation for Makinde’s Development Efforts
The House also commended Governor Makinde for his administration’s developmental strides, particularly in urban expansion and land management initiatives.
Lawmakers expressed optimism that stricter documentation processes would strengthen land governance, reduce disputes and support sustainable development across Oyo State.
