04/08/2025
Some months ago, a friend of mine bought a piece of land in Lagos.
Everything seemed fine, the land was in a good location, price was “reasonable,” and the seller even had “papers.”
But that’s where his joy ended.
Last week, he got a call from someone claiming to be the true owner of the land.
He thought it was a joke… until he was invited by the task force.
Long story short… the person he bought the land from was an encroacher.
He had no right to sell the land in the first place.
You know what’s worse?
According to Section 4(3a) & (5) of the Lagos State Property Protection Law, anyone who buys land from an encroacher is ALSO seen as an encroacher.
It doesn’t matter whether you were innocent or unaware.
Once you're in occupation of the land based on the title of an encroacher, you're automatically deemed to be one too.
And if you’re found guilty?
⚠️ A fine of up to ₦5 million,
⚠️ Or 5 years in prison,
⚠️ Or both.
Imagine being punished for a crime you didn’t even know you committed!
This law is real. The consequences are real. And ignorance is not an excuse.
That’s why before you buy any land or property, do your due diligence.
👉 Investigate the land title.
👉 Engage professionals.
👉 Talk to a real estate lawyer.
Please, don’t allow sweet mouth and “urgent sales” to put you in hot soup.
And if you’re about to buy property or land, let a property lawyer assist you from the beginning.
It can save you money, time, and your freedom.
The Property Lawyer
