06/11/2024
Successful Resolution of Land Dispute Cases by Edo State Private Properties Protection Committee
By Ukoko Ogheneyoleme
In a commendable display of effective governance and conflict resolution, the Edo State Private Properties Protection Committee has successfully facilitated the settlement of multiple land dispute cases in Ovia North East Local Government Area and Ugbiyokho community, ensuring justice and fostering good neighborliness among affected parties.
One notable case involved Mr. Oviasuyi Isaac, acting on behalf of Mr. and Mrs. Egbon Omoruyi, who had legally purchased six plots of land in the Ovia North East LGA. However, an unknown individual encroached upon a 50 by 100 portion of the land. After seeking advice, Mr. Isaac approached the Edo State Private Properties Protection Committee at the Government House to file a formal petition regarding the encroachment.
In response, a government banner was placed on the disputed land, drawing the attention of the encroacher. The unidentified individual, upon learning of the case and the involvement of the committee, voluntarily attended a hearing at the Government House. Following negotiations, the respondent agreed to compensate the petitioners with a sum of 1.5 million Naira, which has now been fully paid. Mr. Oviasuyi Isaac expressed his gratitude for the committee's intervention, thanking the members for their diligence and dedication to ensuring fair hearing and justice. He also commended Governor Godwin Obaseki's initiative in establishing the committee, which has played a pivotal role in resolving disputes, promoting sanity in communities, and fostering a spirit of cooperation among residents.
In another case, a land dispute arose in Ugbiyokho community, where a 100ft by 100ft plot of land belonging to petitioner Osarieme Segun-Vincent was encroached upon by an unknown individual. Similar to the previous case, a government banner was placed on the disputed land, which led the respondent to appear before the committee at the Government House. After negotiations, the respondent and petitioner reached an agreement for the encroacher to pay a total of 3 million Naira in compensation.
To date, the respondent has paid 1.8 million Naira, leaving a balance of 1.2 million Naira still to be settled. The ongoing case continues to be monitored by the committee to ensure full resolution.
These cases highlight the effectiveness of the Edo State Private Properties Protection Committee in resolving land disputes in a fair and transparent manner, helping to prevent the escalation of conflicts and ensuring that rightful property owners are justly compensated. The committee's continued work is a testament to the commitment of the Edo State Government in safeguarding citizens' property rights and fostering peaceful coexistence within communities.
The sitting for both cases is ongoing, and the committee remains dedicated to resolving the remaining issues expediently.
