In Ogun State, concerned stakeholders have called for the establishment of a dedicated tribunal to handle cases related to land grabbing and associated offenses.
Their primary goal is to ensure the efficient and timely administration of justice for the people.
These appeals were made during a public hearing held at the State’s House of Assembly to discuss an amendment bill focused on addressing land-grabbing issues. According to these stakeholders, the State’s peace and progress are currently threatened by the activities of land grabbers, often in collusion with police officials from outside the State Command.
Prominent figures who voiced their concerns during the event included Oba Olufemi Ogunleye, the Towulade of Akinale; Ademola Adebowale, Chairman of the Nigeria Institution of Surveyors in the State; Esv.
Adewale Adedeji, Director of Land Service in the Bureau of Lands and Survey; Surveyor Bode Adeaga, former Majority Leader; Barr. James Olubankole, Director of Legislative Drafting in the State Ministry of Justice; Yinka Folarin, a representative of a human rights group; and Adejoke Adeleye, representing the National Association of Women Journalists.
They emphasized the importance of ensuring that the proposed special tribunal, tasked with handling matters outlined in the bill, receives adequate funding to effectively and responsibly carry out its responsibilities.
Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, clarified that the purpose of the public hearing was to provide a platform for comprehensive discussions and thorough deliberations among all stakeholders.
He emphasized the careful consideration of inputs received, which would be incorporated into the proposed bill amendment.
The Speaker underscored the necessity of amending the law to strengthen its provisions, particularly in addressing issues related to cultism and land grabbing, which have significantly impacted the State. He expressed his commitment to expediting the bill’s passage.
Hon. Damilola Soneye, Chairman of the House Committee on Lands and Housing, acknowledged the substantial number of complaints related to land-grabbing activities and associated offenses that the Assembly receives daily. He assured stakeholders that all inputs would be harmonized into the new bill.
