How to Know and Check If Land Is Free From Government Acquisition in Nigeria

Buying land in Nigeria is a big step, but one of the most important things to check before purchasing is whether the land is free from government acquisition. Government-acquired land has been set aside for public use, such as roads, schools, hospitals, or other infrastructure projects. If you unknowingly buying such land can lead to serious legal and financial troubles.

Here’s a simple guide on how to know and check if the land you want to buy is free from government acquisition:

1. Understand the Types of Government Acquisition

Government-acquired land falls into two main categories:

• Committed Land: This land is already earmarked for specific government purposes. You cannot buy or use it for private purposes.
• Global Acquisition: This land is under acquisition but hasn’t been committed to any project. In some cases, it can be released (through excision) or regularized for private ownership.

2. Check the Land Title

The title of the land provides valuable information about its status. Common land titles in Nigeria include:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): A government-issued document that proves ownership. It usually indicates the land is free from acquisition.
• Excision Document: If a portion of land under global acquisition has been excised (released), the excision document will prove it.
• Gazette: This is an official government record that lists all excised lands.

3. Visit the Land Registry

Every state in Nigeria has a land registry where you can confirm the status of the land. The process involves:

• Submitting a survey plan of the land.
• Verifying if the land falls under government acquisition.

4. Engage a Professional

Hire a surveyor or real estate lawyer to help you conduct due diligence. A surveyor can help with charting the land (using the survey plan) to determine if it’s free from acquisition.

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5. Know the Relevant Laws

Familiarizing yourself with land acquisition laws can help you make informed decisions. Some important laws include:

• Land Use Act of 1978: This law vests all land in each state under the governor’s control. It’s important to confirm if the governor has given consent for the land to be sold.
• Urban and Regional Planning Act: This act outlines the government’s power to acquire land for public purposes.

6. Request Relevant Documents from the Seller

Before paying for land, ask for:

• The survey plan.
• Title documents (e.g., C of O, deed of assignment, excision, or gazette).
• Any proof that the land has been verified as free from acquisition.

7. Check for Physical Signs of Acquisition

Sometimes, physical inspections can reveal if land is under acquisition. Look for sign such as government markings, signboards stating “Government L—Keepeep Off,” or ongoing public projects nearby.

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8. Use Digital Tools

Some states, like Lagos, offer online platforms where you can check land status. For instance, you can use the Lagos State Geographic Information System (GIS) to conduct checks.

What Happens If the Land Is Under Acquisition?

If the land is under acquisition, you can explore these options:

• Seek Regularization: If the land is under global acquisition but not committed, you may be able to regularize it by applying to the state government.
• Avoid Buying: If the land is committed, it’s best to stay away as you cannot claim ownership.

Conclusion

To avoid losing your hard-earned money, always verify the status of any land you intend to buy. Conduct due diligence by checking the land title, visiting the land registry, and consulting professionals. Understanding the laws and processes wihelp you avoidrom potential disputes aou make the right decisions.

When in doubt, take your time. It’s better to delay a purchase than to lose money to government acquisition issues.