Ondo Cracks Down On Land Grabbing, Promises Tough Enforcement

The Ondo State Government says it has started the rigorous enforcement of the law against land grabbers and their prosecution.

Dr Kayode Ajulo, the Ondo State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, said this in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday in Akure.

Ajulo, while reacting to two notorious suspected land grabbers standing trial at an Akure Magistrates’ Court, reiterated his readiness to prosecute all land grabbers without fear and favour.

The commissioner, also the chairman, state Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force, said that the taskforce had started rigorous enforcement of law against land grabbers.

“This is just the beginning. More arrests and prosecutions are on the way. The taskforce initially adopted a humane approach, appealing to land grabbers to desist from their illegal activities and giving them ample time to turn a new leaf.

“But that honeymoon is now over – the window has closed. Those found wanting will be severely dealt with in accordance with the law.

“Let it be clearly understood. There will be no hiding place for land grabbers in Ondo State.

“Those who think they can evade the law by ignoring invitations or going into hiding are only delaying the inevitable. The law will catch up with them, and when it does, it will be decisive,” he said.

According to him, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has given a clear directive that the menace must be brought to an end.

The commissioner noted that the taskforce was committed fully to the governor’s directive, stating that the clampdown would be total, sustained, and uncompromising.

“For the people of Ondo State, the gains are already visible and deeply felt.

“The law has become a formidable shield for genuine landowners and investors, drastically reducing fraudulent land sales, curbing violent clashes, and restoring confidence in property dealings.

“What was once a nightmare of scams, double-dealing, and heartbreak is gradually giving way to order, security, and peace of mind.

“This latest arraignment marks yet another significant milestone in the ongoing war against land grabbing.
“It is a loud and unmistakable declaration in Ondo State that the rule of law reigns supreme and those who choose the path of criminality will be brought to justice without fear or favour.

“The message is ringing loud and clear – land grabbers, your time is up.For land grabbers, it is over,” Ajulo said.

The Attorney-General also expressed appreciation to the state Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, for providing the necessary judicial support for the anti-land grabbing efforts.

He commended the designation of a dedicated court and judicial officers to handle land grabbing cases.
Ajulo noted that the initiative had significantly enhanced the efficiency, speed, and effectiveness of the prosecution process, while reinforcing the state’s resolve to decisively tackle the menace.

“This development is a clear testament to the unwavering commitment of our governor to restoring sanity and order in land administration across the state,” he said.