A rights activist, Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Okonkwo, has threatened to take legal action against the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Soludo, and two other public officials over plans to implement a land title revalidation and recertification process in the state. Okonkwo claims the proposal is an attempt to alter the "Land Use Act" of 1978.
The activist issued a pre-action notice to the Anambra State Government through the Secretary to the State Government, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, and the Commissioner for Lands, Survey, and Urban Planning. Dated October 22, 2024, the notice indicates Okonkwo's intention to sue the government if the proposed land revalidation process proceeds.
The controversy stems from a public notice issued by the Anambra State Ministry of Lands on October 15, 2024, announcing the mandatory revalidation and recertification of all land title documents. The notice, signed by Mrs. Nkeiru Mokwe Esq., Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, explained that the initiative aims to update land records, enhance security for landowners, and align property titles with global standards.
However, Okonkwo, an indigene of Nnobi Community in Idemili South Local Government Area, argues that the exercise violates the Land Use Act of 1978. He describes the proposed revalidation as illegal and unconstitutional, asserting that it undermines the federal law governing land administration in Nigeria.
In his pre-action notice, Okonkwo stated, "The proposed re-certification and revalidation of land title documents in Anambra State is an attempt to alter the Land Use Act, which is unlawful and null from the outset."
He further emphasized that the Land Use Act, along with specific sections of the Constitution, governs land ownership and management in Nigeria. Okonkwo warned that the state's public notice regarding re-certification is in direct conflict with federal law and thus holds no legal standing.
The activist also threatened to seek declaratory, injunctive, and exemplary damages in court if the revalidation process is not halted. He urged landowners to be aware of their land titles' expiration dates and to comply with legal renewal requirements to avoid disputes over ownership.
The Anambra State Government has not yet responded to Okonkwo’s legal threat.
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