Ogunnusi Oloko Family Land Dispute: Legal Battle Escalates to Lagos Governor and Police

Introduction

The Ogunnusi Oloko Family of Arapagi-Oloko Village in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, has intensified its legal battle over alleged unauthorized land sales by petitioning Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Nigeria Police. This dispute highlights critical issues of land ownership disputes in Lagos, ancestral land fraud, and the challenges of property rights in Ibeju-Lekki, a rapidly developing coastal region.

Key Points

Background

The Ogunnusi Oloko Family and Ancestral Land

The Ogunnusi Oloko Family, based in Arapagi-Oloko Village, holds ancestral land in Ibeju-Lekki, a strategic area witnessing rapid urbanization due to infrastructure projects like the Lekki Free Trade Zone. The family’s land dispute centers on allegations that Sakiru Ganiyu falsely represented himself as the family head to facilitate illegal land sales.

Legal Structure and Family Governance

The family’s association was formally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in 2013, listing recognized trustees and officials. According to the family, Elder Mumuni Oloko is the legitimate head, while Ganiyu’s name does not appear in official records. This discrepancy raises questions about land sale authenticity and family governance disputes.

Analysis

Legal Implications of Unauthorized Land Sales

Under Nigerian law, particularly the Lagos State Property Protection Law, unauthorized land sales can lead to criminal prosecution. The family’s petition to Governor Sanwo-Olu and the police underscores the severity of the allegations, which may involve:

• Fraudulent misrepresentation (Section 419 of the Criminal Code).
• Forgery of family documents (Section 465 of the Criminal Code).
• Violation of communal land rights under customary law.

Real Estate Boom and Land Disputes in Ibeju-Lekki

Ibeju-Lekki’s transformation into a prime investment hub has led to a surge in land grabbing cases and property fraud. The Ogunnusi Oloko dispute reflects broader challenges in balancing development pressures with indigenous land rights.

Practical Advice

For Landowners in Disputes

1. Verify land titles through the Lagos State Land Registry.
2. Consult legal experts specializing in property law.
3. Document family governance with CAC and traditional authorities.
4. Report fraud to the police and Lagos State Ministry of Justice.

For Potential Buyers

• Conduct due diligence on land ownership.
• Avoid transactions without family consent or government approval.
• Check for pending litigation on the property.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Ogunnusi Oloko Family’s dispute underscores the urgent need for transparency in land transactions and legal protections for ancestral property in Lagos. As Ibeju-Lekki’s development accelerates, resolving such conflicts requires collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement, and community leaders to safeguard land rights.