When it comes to purchasing land in Lagos State, one of the most crucial steps is ensuring that the land is free from government acquisition. Buying a property that is under government acquisition can lead to significant legal issues, including the possibility of losing your investment. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of verifying if a land is under government acquisition, helping you make an informed decision.
What is Government Acquisition?
Government acquisition refers to the process where the government takes ownership of private land for public use, such as infrastructure projects, schools, hospitals, or other public facilities. In Lagos State, lands can be acquired either through express acquisition or committed acquisition.
- Express Acquisition: This is when the government has officially taken over the land for a specific purpose, and the acquisition is well-documented.
- Committed Acquisition: This involves land that the government intends to use in the future but has not yet officially acquired.
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Why is it Important to Check for Government Acquisition?
Purchasing land under government acquisition can lead to severe consequences, including the government reclaiming the land without compensation. Therefore, it’s crucial to verify the status of the land before making any purchase.
Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying Land Status in Lagos
1. Obtain the Survey Plan
The first step in verifying land status is to obtain the survey plan of the land. A survey plan is a legal document that shows the precise boundaries and location of the land. It is prepared by a registered surveyor and is a critical document in the land purchase process.
Tip: Ensure the survey plan is authenticated by the Office of the Surveyor-General of Lagos State.
2. Conduct a Land Information Search
With the survey plan in hand, the next step is to conduct a land information search at the Lagos State Land Registry. This search will reveal if the land is under any form of acquisition or government interest.
How to Conduct the Search:
- Visit the Lagos State Land Registry.
- Submit a copy of the survey plan.
- Request a land information certificate, which will detail the land’s status.
The search result will indicate whether the land is under government acquisition or free from any encumbrance.
3. Visit the Land Bureau Office
Another crucial step is visiting the Lagos State Land Bureau. Here, you can get additional confirmation about the land’s status. The Land Bureau can provide information on whether the land has been designated for future government projects or if it’s currently under any form of acquisition.
What to Ask:
- Ask for detailed records of any government acquisition in the area.
- Verify if there are any future government plans for the land.
4. Engage a Professional Real Estate Lawyer
Given the complexities involved in land acquisition laws in Lagos State, it’s advisable to engage a professional real estate lawyer. A lawyer with experience in land matters can help you navigate the legal aspects, ensuring that all necessary checks are completed.
What Your Lawyer Will Do:
- Cross-check the survey plan with official records.
- Confirm that all documentation is accurate and up-to-date.
- Provide legal advice on the safest way to proceed with the purchase.
5. Confirm with Local Authorities
Sometimes, local knowledge can be invaluable. Speaking with local authorities or the traditional landowners (Omoniles) can provide insights into the land’s history and whether it’s under any form of acquisition.
Steps to Take:
- Engage with community leaders or Omoniles for local insights.
- Ask about any disputes or government interest in the land.
What to Do If the Land is Under Acquisition
If your search reveals that the land is under government acquisition, it’s best to avoid the purchase. However, if you are still interested, you may consider applying for a ratification (also known as regularization) from the Lagos State Government. This process involves converting the acquisition to a legally recognized title, but it can be complex and costly.