Land Administration: Abia Govt Takes Drastic Action Against Failure By Property Owners To Recertify

The Abia State government says property owners who failed to take part in recently concluded land recertification will stand the risk of losing their properties, saying the exercise was initiated to enhance effective land administration.

The Commissioner in charge of the Ministry of Lands and Housing, Ikenna Chukwumerije while briefing newsmen in Umuahia on the land title documents exercise said there will be no extension after the deadline of August 30, insisting that property owners who failed to submit their documents will face consequences.

He said the recertification exercise, which commenced on 3 June 2024, was designed to streamline and modernize the state’s land records for more effective management.

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Chukwumerije explained, “This initiative is not just about updating records; it’s about ensuring the integrity and security of land ownership in Abia State. We are committed to making it easier to do business, and this process is a critical step in that direction.”

With the grace period now expired, the Ministry has enforced strict penalties for non-compliance.

“Any title document that was not submitted for recertification will no longer be recognized by the Ministry or its agencies,” Chukwumerije warned.

“This includes planning authorities, and restrictions will be placed on any transactions involving such properties until recertification is completed.

“We are particularly focused on areas where there has been a default in terms and conditions of allocations, including non-development,” he noted.

Chukwumerije also urged property owners to promptly bring their documents for verification and necessary upgrades.

“If your documentation is in order, you have nothing to worry about. But if you have not submitted your title documents, we will place a restriction on your property until you do,” he stated. “This applies to all properties, whether within government layouts or inherited from a third party.”

In addition to recertification, the Ministry is cracking down on illegal encroachments within estates managed by the Abia State Estates and Development Agency (ABSEDA).

The Commissioner assured the public that the Ministry is committed to resolving issues concerning Certificates of Occupancy (C of Os) within 30 days of submission, provided all conditions are met.

He concluded with a call to action: “We urge all property owners to secure their assets by complying with the recertification requirements. Failure to do so could expose you to disputes or even loss of ownership.”