Obiodeh Issues Warning on Land Encroachment in Delta

Delta State Commissioner for Lands, Surveys and Urban Development, Goodnews Obiodeh, has warned against land encroachment, urging individuals and communities to refrain from trespassing on government-acquired lands or face legal action.

Speaking in Asaba during a meeting with representatives of the Atakiako (Egbedemi) family of Oleh, Obiodeh said, under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, all lands acquired by the government are for public use. He advised communities to verify land ownership with the Ministry before developing or selling, warning that ignorance of the law would not be accepted as an excuse.

The Commissioner also cautioned against building on state lands, stating that the Town Planning Offices would not approve such structures. “Any illegal buildings would be demolished, and encroachers prosecuted.” He said.

On his part, Prince Andrew Ogbodu, Regent of the Atakiako family, stated that he was unaware of the government’s land acquisition and sought clarification regarding the boundaries of the land in question.

Obiodeh noted that the state government is committed to reclaiming encroached lands, citing the recent demolition of illegal structures on land belonging to Dennis Osadebay University in Anwai-Asaba.

The Commissioner also urged property owners with outstanding ground rents to settle arrears to avoid penalties or the revocation of their Certificates of Occupancy.