How to Handle Land Grabbers (Omonile) in Ogun State
Introduction
In Ogun State today, one of the most troubling challenges property buyers and investors face is the menace of land grabbers, popularly known as “Omonile.” These individuals or groups claim traditional ownership or authority over lands—often illegally—and demand payments, threaten developers, or even seize land outright.
Many investors have lost millions to fraudulent sales or have been harassed on their own legally acquired land by people claiming ancestral or family rights. The activities of land grabbers not only discourage development but also destabilize real estate investment confidence in the state.
To curb this, the Ogun State Government has enacted laws and established agencies to combat land grabbing. However, many property owners remain unaware of their rights and how to enforce them.
This comprehensive guide by Chaman Law Firm, a leading property and real estate law firm in Ogun State and Lagos, provides a step-by-step explanation of how to identify, prevent, and handle land grabbers legally and effectively.
Who Are Land Grabbers (Omonile)?
Land grabbers, known locally as Omonile, are individuals, families, or syndicates who illegally claim ownership or control of land. They often sell or allocate land without lawful authority or demand illegal levies such as foundation fees, roofing fees, or “settlement” charges from genuine buyers.
These actors may pose as family representatives, community heads, or so-called “land owners” without any valid title. Some even collaborate with dishonest surveyors or agents to falsify documents. Their tactics include intimidation, double sales, harassment of workers, and violent occupation of developed property.
Understanding the Legal Framework: The Ogun State Land Grabbing Law
To combat this problem, the Ogun State Government enacted the Land Grabbing (Prohibition) Law, 2016. The law criminalizes all forms of forceful entry, illegal sale, and violent takeover of land.
Key Provisions of the Ogun State Land Grabbing Law
Prohibition of Forceful Takeover
It is a criminal offence for anyone to forcefully enter or occupy land without lawful authority.Illegal Sale of Land
Any person or group who sells land without the rightful owner’s consent commits an offence punishable by imprisonment.Demand for Illegal Levies
Collecting fees such as “development levy” or “foundation money” from developers is prohibited unless approved by the state.Use of Thugs or Violence
The use of armed men or violent intimidation to claim land constitutes an offence.Establishment of the Task Force on Land Grabbing
The law empowers a special task force under the Governor’s office to investigate and prosecute offenders.Penalty for Offenders
Convicted land grabbers face imprisonment ranging from 5 to 21 years, depending on the nature of the offence.
Common Forms of Land Grabbing in Ogun State
Fraudulent Multiple Sales: The same plot is sold to several buyers by different “representatives.”
Forceful Occupation: Armed men invade and seize developed or undeveloped land.
Extortion of Illegal Fees: Collecting money at various building stages without legal backing.
Forgery of Title Documents: Fake survey plans, deeds, and family receipts are issued.
Encroachment through Violence: Neighboring landowners forcibly expand into adjoining properties.
Land Hijacking after Payment: Buyers pay and are later denied possession under false pretenses.
Areas Most Affected by Omonile Activities in Ogun
While land grabbing can occur anywhere, it is most prevalent in rapidly developing areas near Lagos and major industrial zones, such as:
Arepo
Mowe
Ibafo
Ofada
Magboro
Sagamu
Agbara
Aseese
Ewekoro
These regions are close to Lagos, making them prime targets for fraudulent sales and illegal “family” allocations.
Why Land Grabbing Persists
Weak enforcement of laws before 2016
Ignorance of legal procedures by buyers
Lack of title verification and due diligence
Poor community record keeping
High demand for land around Lagos–Ogun corridors
Corruption and collaboration between fake agents, land speculators, and some officials
Legal Rights of a Landowner in Ogun State
Under the Land Use Act of 1978 and the Ogun State Land Grabbing Law, every lawful landholder has the following rights:
Right of possession and peaceful enjoyment
Right to protection from unlawful interference
Right to seek police assistance or task force intervention
Right to prosecute land grabbers
Right to civil remedies such as damages and injunctions
These rights are enforceable in court, and landowners are encouraged to use formal legal channels rather than engaging in self-help.
How to Identify Land Grabbers Before Purchase
Before you buy land, watch out for these red flags:
Seller refuses to show survey plan or C of O
Price is suspiciously low compared to nearby plots
Multiple “family representatives” giving conflicting stories
No record with the Land Bureau or local CDA
Pressure to pay quickly to “secure” the land
Frequent mention of “settling boys” or “Omonile money”
If any of these appear, stop and verify through a property lawyer or the Ogun State Bureau of Lands and Survey.
Steps to Take When Land Grabbers Threaten or Invade Your Property
Stay Calm – Avoid Confrontation
Do not engage in physical fights. Violence can lead to criminal charges on both sides.Contact Your Property Lawyer Immediately
A qualified property lawyer will assess your title documents and determine your legal standing.Report to the Ogun State Land Grabbing Task Force
This special unit under the Governor’s office handles such complaints swiftly.Lodge a Complaint with the Police
Specifically, report to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) or the Property Fraud Unit.Gather Evidence
Keep all receipts, photos, surveys, and correspondence. Record incidents if safely possible.File a Petition through Your Lawyer
Your lawyer can petition the Attorney-General’s office to prosecute under the Land Grabbing Law.Apply for a Court Injunction
The court can restrain land grabbers from further interference while investigation continues.Secure Your Property Legally
Erect a fence, install signboards with ownership details, and obtain Governor’s Consent on your deed.
Understanding the Role of the Ogun State Task Force on Land Grabbing
The Task Force on Land Grabbing is an enforcement agency created to curb illegal land practices. Its key functions include:
Investigating complaints of land grabbing
Arresting and prosecuting offenders
Recovering lands for rightful owners
Collaborating with police, courts, and surveyors
Protecting developers and investors during construction
You can contact the Task Force through the Ogun State Ministry of Justice, Abeokuta.
Case Study: Land Grabbing Incident in Mowe
In 2022, a developer purchased 10 acres in Mowe from a registered family and obtained all valid documents. Midway into construction, a rival family invaded the land with thugs, demanding new payment. The matter was reported to the Ogun Land Grabbing Task Force.
After investigation, the Task Force arrested the perpetrators and confirmed the buyer’s documents were valid. The genuine owner regained possession, and the offenders were charged to court.
This real example underscores the importance of acting promptly and following due legal channels.
Preventive Measures Against Land Grabbers
Conduct Thorough Due Diligence
Always verify ownership with the Ogun State Land Bureau before payment.Engage a Reputable Property Lawyer
Your lawyer should handle searches, contracts, and title transfers.Use Registered Surveyors
Ensure the survey plan is authenticated and lodged with the Surveyor-General.Register Your Title Documents
A registered Deed of Assignment with Governor’s Consent gives you statutory protection.Avoid Cash Transactions
Always pay via bank transfer and keep all receipts.Fence and Secure Your Land Immediately
Display your name and contact information on a signboard to deter illegal occupation.Engage Local Authorities Early
Inform the local CDA and community heads about your ownership.Regularly Visit and Monitor the Property
Periodic inspection prevents encroachment and early detection of illegal activities.
Legal Actions Available to Victims of Land Grabbing
1. Criminal Prosecution under the Ogun Land Grabbing Law
The state can prosecute offenders upon your petition. Convictions attract heavy jail terms.
2. Civil Action for Trespass and Damages
You may sue in court for compensation and injunction against further entry.
3. Petition to the Ministry of Justice or Task Force
A formal complaint may lead to investigation, recovery, and arrest.
4. Action for Declaration of Title
If ownership is disputed, you can ask the High Court to declare you the lawful owner.
5. Action for Recovery of Possession
Where land has been forcefully occupied, the court can order eviction of the invaders.
The Role of Police and Government in Curbing Land Grabbing
The Ogun State Government collaborates with:
Nigeria Police Force (Anti-Land Grabbing Unit)
State Ministry of Justice
Ogun Bureau of Lands and Survey
Ministry of Urban and Physical Planning
These agencies coordinate intelligence, arrest, and legal prosecution. Victims are encouraged to report promptly for intervention.
How Chaman Law Firm Handles Land Grabber Cases
At Chaman Law Firm, we adopt a strategic, multi-layered approach to protecting our clients from land grabbers:
Conducting immediate title verification and re-survey
Liaising with Task Force and police for recovery
Filing injunctions and criminal petitions
Negotiating peaceful settlements where possible
Ensuring clients’ properties are legally documented and secured
Our team combines legal expertise with practical field experience to ensure you regain your peace and property.
Case Law Reference
In Olujimi v. Adebayo (2018) 15 NWLR (Pt. 1642) 251 (CA), the court held that possession is a strong indicator of ownership and that any person who enters another’s land without consent is a trespasser, regardless of alleged customary rights.
This case strengthens the position of lawful buyers who have documentary titles and physical possession in Ogun State.
The Danger of Negotiating with Land Grabbers
Many property owners, out of fear or desperation, try to “settle” Omonile by paying illegal levies. This often backfires because:
Payment does not legalize their claim.
It encourages further extortion.
It weakens your legal position in court.
Instead, handle all engagements through your lawyer and law enforcement agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I arrest land grabbers myself?
No. Always involve the police or task force. Self-help can lead to assault charges.
Q2: What should I do if I already paid Omonile before the law came into effect?
You cannot recover past payments easily, but you can still register your land properly and protect it moving forward.
Q3: How do I contact the Ogun Task Force on Land Grabbing?
Through the Ogun State Ministry of Justice, Abeokuta, or by visiting the state secretariat complex.
Q4: Can I sue a community or family for selling my land twice?
Yes. Both civil and criminal remedies are available against the individuals involved.
Q5: How can I ensure I don’t buy land from Omonile again?
Always conduct a search at the Land Bureau, verify surveys, and hire a lawyer before making payment.
Q6: Does the law protect developers too?
Yes. Both individuals and corporate developers are protected under the Ogun State Land Grabbing Law.
What to Do After Recovering Your Land
Secure it with perimeter fencing.
Obtain the Governor’s Consent immediately.
Maintain regular surveillance or hire a security guard.
Keep all legal records in safe custody.
Inform the community development association about your ownership.
The Economic Impact of Land Grabbing on Ogun State
Land grabbing discourages investment and slows development. It affects housing delivery, infrastructure growth, and real estate financing. The Ogun government continues to encourage legitimate investors through reforms and task force interventions, making the state safer for real estate business.
Final Thoughts
The menace of Omonile is gradually being eradicated through enforcement of the Ogun State Land Grabbing Law and increased public awareness. Property buyers must, however, play their part by purchasing only verified lands, registering their titles, and reporting any unlawful interference immediately.
Your land is a lifetime investment—protect it with knowledge, law, and action.
Call to Action
If you are facing threats or harassment from Omonile or land grabbers in Ogun State, don’t face it alone.
Engage professional legal help immediately.
