Can I Appoint a Lawyer to Buy Property on My Behalf in Ogun?
Introduction
As a Nigerian in the diaspora or someone who is unavailable to be physically present in Ogun State during a real estate transaction, you may wonder: “Can I appoint a lawyer to buy property on my behalf in Ogun?”
The short answer is yes—and it’s not just possible, but often the smartest and safest option, especially when you are abroad. Nigeria’s legal framework permits the use of legal representation in land transactions through tools like the Power of Attorney (PoA) and legal proxies.
This article provides a full breakdown of:
What it means to appoint a lawyer.
The legal process and documents involved.
How to choose the right legal representative.
Potential risks and how to avoid them.
The benefits of doing so, especially for overseas buyers.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the right knowledge to make informed decisions about using a lawyer to represent you in Ogun State real estate transactions.
Can I Legally Appoint a Lawyer to Act on My Behalf?
Yes. Nigerian property law recognizes legal representation through the Power of Attorney (PoA). This legal document allows you to authorize a lawyer (or any trusted person) to act on your behalf in legal, financial, or administrative matters — including buying land or property.
This is especially useful if:
You live abroad (in the U.S., U.K., Canada, etc.)
You are too busy to travel.
You want professional guidance through legal processes.
You want to avoid fraud or misrepresentation.
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney (PoA) is a legally binding document that grants your lawyer the right to act for you in legal matters, including property purchases.
Types of PoA You Can Use:
General Power of Attorney
Covers broad legal powers (e.g., bank, property, legal decisions).Special Power of Attorney
Limits the power to a specific transaction (e.g., buying one plot of land in Abeokuta).
A PoA can be:
Revocable (you can cancel it at any time), or
Irrevocable (only expires upon a specific event or time).
Legal Requirements to Appoint a Lawyer in Ogun State
Step-by-Step Process:
Hire a Reputable Lawyer
Ensure they are registered with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
Preferably have experience in Ogun State land matters.
Draft the Power of Attorney
Include your full details, the lawyer’s details, and specific powers granted.
Clearly state property location, transaction scope, and limitations.
Authenticate or Notarize the PoA
In Nigeria: PoA must be signed and notarized by a notary public.
Overseas: You can draft and notarize it in your country, then legalize it at the Nigerian Embassy or send to Nigeria for court authentication.
Register the PoA in Nigeria
Your lawyer will submit the PoA to the Lands Registry in Ogun State.
It becomes legally enforceable only after registration.
Execute the Property Transaction
Your lawyer can now inspect property, negotiate, pay, sign agreements, and register the land in your name.
Risks Involved and How to Avoid Them
While appointing a lawyer is smart, there are risks to avoid:
1. Unethical Lawyers or Impersonators
Verify NBA registration.
Request references or previous clients.
Sign a separate service agreement for legal accountability.
2. Poorly Written PoA
Always use a legally vetted format.
Avoid ambiguous language.
3. Misuse of Authority
Limit the scope of authority.
Use a special PoA where appropriate.
Monitor transactions through email and video updates.
Benefits of Using a Lawyer to Buy Property on Your Behalf
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Legal Protection | Lawyers are trained to detect and avoid fraudulent transactions. |
| Time-Saving | No need to travel back and forth to Nigeria. |
| Accuracy in Documentation | Lawyers ensure proper title verification, due diligence, and registration. |
| Negotiation | They can negotiate better prices and terms on your behalf. |
| Litigation Support | If things go wrong, you already have legal backing. |
Documents Your Lawyer Will Handle for You
Offer Letter
Sales Agreement
Deed of Assignment
Survey Plan
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Governor’s Consent
Registered PoA
Tax Clearance (where applicable)
How to Choose the Right Lawyer for Ogun Property Purchase
Choose someone based in Ogun State or familiar with its local land registry.
They should have verifiable experience in real estate law.
Ask for evidence of past successful transactions.
If overseas, ensure the lawyer can communicate via video calls and email.
Look for transparency, professionalism, and a clear legal fee structure.
Can a Lawyer Also Represent Me in Perfecting the Land Title?
Yes. Your lawyer can:
Register your Deed of Assignment at the Ogun State Land Registry.
Apply for the Governor’s Consent.
Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) if it’s virgin land.
Monitor all approvals and submit necessary forms and payments.
🌍 What If I’m Based Overseas?
You can still:
Draft a PoA and sign it in your country.
Notarize it at a public notary.
Legalize it at a Nigerian Embassy.
DHL the original document to Nigeria for use.
Your lawyer can begin the transaction once the PoA is registered in Nigeria.
Real-Life Example
Chinedu (Canada):
Wanted to buy a plot in Mowe but couldn’t travel. He appointed a lawyer via Power of Attorney, who verified the land, negotiated the deal, and registered the title in his name. Chinedu received video updates throughout and now owns the land without ever leaving Canada.
Summary Checklist
Before appointing a lawyer:
Verify the lawyer’s credentials.
Draft a specific and legally correct Power of Attorney.
Notarize and legalize the PoA.
Register it in Ogun State.
Stay involved with regular updates.
Call to Action
Are you living abroad and ready to invest in Ogun property without the risk of fraud, delay, or poor documentation?
Contact us today for:
Secure Power of Attorney drafting.
Property verification services.
Legal representation for your land transaction.
Protect your investment, avoid scams, and get peace of mind — even from overseas.
