Land disputes are common in Nigeria due to issues such as unclear ownership, fraudulent sales, boundary disagreements, and inheritance conflicts. Resolving these disputes requires patience, legal knowledge, and proper documentation. This article provides a step-by-step guide to resolving land disputes effectively in Nigeria.

Common Causes of Land Disputes in Nigeria

Land disputes arise from various factors, including:

• Multiple sales of the same land to different buyers
• Unclear land ownership records
• Family inheritance disagreements
• Unapproved land sales by unauthorized persons
• Government acquisition or revocation of land ownership

Steps to Resolve a Land Dispute

1. Gather Relevant Documents

Before taking any action, collect all necessary documents related to the land, including:

• Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
• Deed of Assignment
• Survey plan
• Purchase receipts and agreements
• Court rulings (if applicable)

Having these documents will help establish legal ownership and strengthen your case.

2. Attempt an Out-of-Court Settlement

If possible, resolving the issue amicably through dialogue can save time and money. Steps for an out-of-court settlement include:

• Engaging all affected parties in discussions
• Involving community leaders, elders, or traditional rulers
• Using Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods such as mediation or arbitration

This method is particularly useful for family land disputes or cases involving long-term neighbors.

3. Report the Dispute to Local Authorities

If a resolution cannot be reached through dialogue, report the dispute to the appropriate authorities:

• The Local Government Council (for disputes related to customary land)
• The Land Registry Office (to verify land ownership)
• The Police (if fraud or trespassing is involved)

Local authorities may intervene to mediate or confirm legal ownership before taking further steps.

4. Seek Legal Action in Court

If all other methods fail, legal action may be necessary. The appropriate courts for land disputes in Nigeria include:

• The High Court (for statutory land disputes)
• The Customary Court (for cases involving traditional land ownership)
• The National Industrial Court (for disputes related to compensation for government-acquired land)

Ensure you hire a qualified property lawyer with experience in land cases.

Preventing Future Land Disputes

To avoid land-related conflicts, consider the following preventive measures:

• Conduct proper land verification before purchase
• Obtain a Certificate of Occupancy and register your land with the government
• Consult a lawyer before signing any land agreement
• Avoid purchasing land without a valid survey plan and title documents

Land disputes can be complex, but they can be resolved through documentation, mediation, and legal processes. The best approach is to prevent disputes by ensuring proper verification before purchasing land. If conflicts arise, following the outlined steps will help you navigate the resolution process smoothly.