Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared forceful land acquisition a criminal offense as part of efforts to curb land grabbing in the state. Speaking through his Deputy, Adebayo Lawal, at a stakeholders’ forum in Ibadan, the governor emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance for illegal land encroachments. This move is supported by the Anti-Land Grabbing Agency and the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, chaired by retired Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi.
Makinde stressed the state’s commitment to protecting the rights of landowners, stating that no one should forcibly occupy another person’s property. According to him, land grabbing, which was once seen as a sign of conquest, is now a criminal act under the new law. He warned offenders to desist or face the consequences.
In addition to addressing land disputes, the governor called for stricter adherence to environmental laws and public space regulations. He cited recent cases of indiscriminate cattle grazing, including within the state secretariat, and vowed that violators would be prosecuted.
The event, organized by the Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED), aimed to promote societal values and address pressing challenges. Makinde praised OYMASED’s role in tackling issues like land grabbing, traffic management, and drug abuse.
Justice Aderemi lauded the state government’s efforts to uphold the rule of law and restore order through institutional reforms. She noted that value reorientation was key to creating a more disciplined society, urging citizens to comply with existing laws.
