Menace of land grabbing in Nigeria: A threat to stability and rule of law

The epidemic of land grabbing in Nigeria serves as a stark illustration of the country’s descent into normlessness, with Lagos being a hotspot due to the high demand for land for residential and commercial purposes.

Almost every day, the media reports on the activities of these nefarious perpetrators, with Lagos being a hotspot due to the high demand for land for residential and commercial purposes.

The land grabbers, known as Omo Onile, have a well-established modus operandi whereby they gather in large numbers, armed with dangerous weapons such as guns, arrows, and machetes, and launch violent attacks on targeted properties. Their aim is either to extort significant sums of money from the rightful owners or to scare them away entirely.

Unfortunately, this approach has resulted in numerous untold deaths. In July, for instance, land grabbers assaulted and killed Fatai Jubril, a traditional ruler in Lotun Town, Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos State. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest of one suspect in connection with the killing.

The arrest of a suspect in the Fatai Jubril case is significant because it highlights the involvement of law enforcement in a phenomenon where the law has otherwise been absent. In some instances of land grabbing violence, there is even evidence suggesting the complicity of law enforcement and the state bureaucracy.

The fact that some land grabbers possess official state stamps implies that they have the support of insiders who should be protecting those who have legally acquired land.

The issue of land grabbing not only poses a threat to property rights but also undermines the rule of law and stability in Nigeria. It is imperative for law enforcement agencies to take a proactive stance in combating this menace and ensuring that justice is served.

Additionally, efforts should be made to address the underlying causes of land scarcity and provide legal avenues for land acquisition. Only through such measures can the country hope to curb the epidemic of land grabbing and restore order and security to its citizens.

Land grabbing evokes images of lawlessness and disorder, where individuals take what they want by force, without regard for the rights of others.

It is a phenomenon that is unfortunately prevalent in Nigeria, a country that prides itself on being a functional society with a strong government. In Lagos State, land grabbers continue to wreak havoc, causing untold pain and suffering to legitimate landowners and potential investors alike.

The government’s inability to curb this trend is a cause for concern, as it threatens to undermine the state’s reputation and economic prospects.The impact of land grabbing on the people of Lagos State cannot be overstated. For those who have invested in landed property, the fear of losing their investment to these marauders is a constant source of anxiety.

For potential investors, the risk of losing their money to land grabbers is a major deterrent, leading to a loss of revenue for the state. The government must act decisively to put an end to this menace, before it spirals out of control.Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has a critical role to play in addressing this issue.

As the leader of the state, he must take the lead in ensuring that the rule of law is upheld, and that the rights of citizens are protected. This means cracking down on land grabbers and bringing them to justice, regardless of their status or connections.

It also means providing support and protection to legitimate landowners, and creating an environment that is conducive to investment and development.The consequences of inaction are dire.

Land grabbers often use force to evict residents from their homes and land.

This has led to displacement of families and communities, leaving them vulnerable to homelessness and poverty.

They often use violence and intimidation to scare residents into leaving their homes and land. This has led to cases of assault, rape, and even murder.

But, land grabbing often involves the destruction of natural resources such as forests, wetlands, and water bodies. This has led to environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and reduced access to clean water.

It has created a sense of insecurity among residents, as they are constantly living in fear of losing their homes and land. This has led to a breakdown of social cohesion and increased crime rates.

Also, the economic activities of residents, as they are often forced to abandon their farms and businesses. This has led to loss of income and increased poverty.

If land grabbing is allowed to continue unchecked, it will lead to a breakdown of law and order, and a loss of confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens. This will have far-reaching implications for the state’s economy, as investors will look elsewhere for opportunities.

The time to act is now, before it is too late. The people of Lagos State deserve better, and it is up to the government to deliver.