The Oyo State Real Properties Protection Law Agency has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to tackling land grabbing and related offences across the state, with over 1,000 petitions successfully resolved since its full operations commenced in 2023.
The Chairman of the agency’s Task Force Unit, Justice Olajumoke Aiki (rtd), made this known while speaking on a television programme in Ibadan, where she addressed widespread misconceptions about the agency’s functions and achievements under the Oyo State Real Properties Protection Law 2016.
According to her, the agency’s core responsibility is to conduct detailed investigations into land-related criminal allegations and take appropriate action as stipulated by law, rather than adjudicating or mediating land disputes.
“This agency does not rule on land matters. It is not a court of law or a mediation centre,” Justice Aiki clarified.
“Our duty is to carry out thorough investigations into land and property disputes, and where necessary, prepare legal advice and prosecute offenders under the Real Properties Protection Law of 2016.”
She explained that the Task Force operates through close collaboration with key institutions, including the Amotekun Corps, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ministry of Justice, Office of the Surveyor-General, Ministry of Lands, Bureau of Physical Planning and Environmental Development, and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.
These partnerships, she noted, ensure fairness, transparency, and professionalism in resolving sensitive land-related issues.
“This collaborative structure reflects the vision of His Excellency, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, who remains committed to ridding Oyo State of land grabbing and all associated criminalities,” she said.
Justice Aiki added that the agency’s legal operations are supported by lawyers from the Ministry of Justice, who provide expert guidance to ensure adherence to the rule of law throughout investigation and prosecution stages.
“Our legal officers conduct due diligence, prepare legal advice, and determine those to be charged to court based on the evidence gathered. We receive petitions, investigate thoroughly, and act strictly according to legal provisions,” she emphasized.
She also identified common violations under the Real Properties Protection Law to include forceful entry, fraudulent land sales or purchases, illegal demolition, encroachment, and violent threats against rightful owners, urging members of the public to conduct proper verification before acquiring land.
Highlighting the agency’s achievements, Justice Aiki revealed that since its inauguration and operational launch, the agency has recorded over 3,500 petition forms collected, with more than 2,500 returned, and about 1,000 petitions concluded successfully.
She expressed appreciation to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde for his consistent support in providing the agency with logistics, personnel, and operational tools necessary for smooth functioning.
“With the help of God and the support of our amiable Governor, we have been able to surmount challenges. We also appreciate the cooperation of security agencies and other stakeholders who make our work effective,” she noted.
Justice Aiki further disclosed that petition collection and submission are completely free of charge, including legal representation for criminal prosecutions — a policy she said was directed by Governor Makinde to ensure accessibility and fairness.
“Our forms are free, and we are currently developing a web portal that will allow people to obtain, fill, and submit petitions online. Physical meetings will only be required where necessary,” she announced.
On public enlightenment, the retired jurist stated that the agency has intensified its media awareness campaign through radio, television, and print channels to educate residents on land-related offences and preventive measures.
“Our jingle has even reached neighbouring states. Someone once called from Osogbo saying he heard it on a station from Ibadan — that shows our message is spreading widely,” she recalled.
She also emphasized that the agency’s task force personnel are trained professionals who undergo regular capacity-building sessions to improve efficiency in managing land-related disputes.
Justice Aiki clarified that the agency’s functions do not conflict with those of the Olubadan of Ibadanland’s land mediation committee, noting that while the Olubadan’s committee focuses on mediation, the agency deals with criminal aspects of land-related offences.
Reiterating the agency’s zero-tolerance stance, Justice Aiki warned individuals and groups involved in land grabbing to desist, stressing that all petitions will continue to be handled with fairness, justice, and strict adherence to due process.
Meanwhile, to strengthen its6 operations, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde recently approved and released a fleet of operational vehicles to the agency on November 3, 2025, a gesture Justice Aiki described as another milestone in enhancing efficiency and response capability.
“With the continued support of our Governor, we are confident that the menace of land grabbing will soon be a thing of the past in Oyo State,” she concluded.
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