Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Lokoja — The Kogi State Government has uncovered widespread fraud in the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) and has taken decisive action to invalidate all titles found to have been obtained irregularly or without adherence to statutory requirements. The move marks a significant effort by the state to clamp down on land fraud, uphold due process and protect public assets.
A statement issued by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communications, detailed findings from a comprehensive investigation into land titles across the state. The probe revealed that numerous Certificates of Occupancy did not have proper supporting documentation, lacked corresponding official files and bypassed essential statutory processes designed to ensure legality and transparency in land administration.
According to the government, some perpetrators went as far as fraudulently manipulating or misapplying official codes in attempts to conceal irregularities and evade required procedures. In response, the state has invalidated every Certificate of Occupancy found to have been improperly issued, declaring them null, void and of no legal effect.
The government reaffirmed that, under the Kogi State Land Use Law and constitutional provisions, the exclusive authority to sign and validate Certificates of Occupancy rests with the Governor. Any land title claimed outside this lawful process therefore lacks legal standing and cannot be recognised in law or in any judicial proceedings.
In tandem with the invalidation of fraudulent land titles, the state has also reclaimed government property illegally acquired through irregular means. These properties have been fully reverted to the ownership of the Kogi State Government, signaling a firm stance against the unlawful appropriation of public assets.
The Commissioner for Information urged individuals and entities in possession of land or government property obtained under questionable or irregular circumstances to come forward and verify the status of their holdings with the appropriate authorities. This verification process is intended to ensure that legitimate owners are distinguished from those with fraudulent titles and to prevent further disputes or legal complications.
Mr. Fanwo further warned that any person found to have participated in the fraudulent issuance of Certificates of Occupancy or the illegal takeover of government assets will be prosecuted in line with existing laws. The statement emphasised that accountability measures will be applied without fear or favour, and that legal consequences for fraudulent activity will be pursued rigorously.
The government’s actions form part of a broader commitment to transparency, accountability and the protection of public property. Officials noted that land remains one of the most valuable economic resources in Kogi State, and safeguarding its administration against abuse is key to fostering investor confidence and ensuring equitable access to land for residents and businesses alike.
“The era of land‑related fraud and impunity in Kogi State is over,” the statement declared, underscoring a zero‑tolerance approach to corruption and fraudulent conduct in land matters. The government reiterated its dedication to strengthening institutional processes and enhancing oversight mechanisms to prevent future occurrences of fraud.
Landowners and residents have responded with a mixture of relief and caution, recognising that the move could stabilize land tenure systems but also create short‑term uncertainties for some landholders. Legal practitioners have advised affected parties to seek official clarification promptly to determine the validity of their land holdings and to engage with the verification process as required.
The state’s anti‑fraud initiative aligns with similar actions in other parts of Nigeria, where governments have moved to address title irregularities and protect public assets from unscrupulous actors. In Kogi State, the renewed focus on land title integrity is expected to contribute to more transparent land governance and to deter future abuses of land administration systems.
Individuals affected by the invalidation of Certificates of Occupancy are encouraged to visit the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development or designated state land offices for guidance on next steps, including verification, appeal procedures and compliance requirements.
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