Introduction
The rapid urbanisation and population growth in Lagos State, Nigeria, have led to increased demand for land, resulting in large-scale land acquisitions by government agencies, corporate entities, and wealthy individuals. Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area has been a focal point for such acquisitions, sparking concerns about the impact on local landowners. The acquisition of large tracts of land by state governments for development projects has become a contentious issue in Nigeria, particularly in urban areas like Lagos State. One notable example is the Lekki Peninsula land acquisition, which has sparked intense debate and raised concerns about the rights of landowners and the government’s role in land administration. This study aims to investigate the effects of large-scale land acquisition on landowners in Ibeju Lekki, examining the compensation, resettlement, and livelihood implications. It will also explore the legal frameworks governing land acquisition and the role of stakeholders in ensuring fair treatment of landowners. The write-up seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse on land governance. By examining the Lekki Peninsula in Ibeju Lekki, this research will provide insights into the complexities of large-scale land acquisition and its effects on local communities. It also evaluates the Lekki Peninsula land acquisition, highlighting the issues, solutions, and recommendations for improving the land acquisition process. Ultimately, it aims to inform policies that balance development needs with the rights and interests of landowners
.The Study Area
Lagos State, Nigeria’s economic hub, has experienced rapid urbanisation and population growth, leading to increased demand for land for development projects. The Lekki Peninsula, located in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, has been a focal point of large-scale land acquisitions by the state government for various projects, including the Lekki Free Trade Zone (LFTZ). While these projects aim to stimulate economic growth and development, they have raised concerns about the impact on local communities and landowners.
Issues
Large-scale land acquisition of the Lekki Peninsula in the Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State has been associated with several issues affecting landowners. One major concern is the lack of adequate compensation for acquired lands. Despite the Lagos State Government’s assurance of fair compensation, many landowners feel that the compensation provided is insufficient, leading to disputes and mistrust.
Another issue is the absence of proper consultation and consent from landowners before the acquisition process. Landowners have reported not being informed or involved in decision-making processes regarding their lands, which is a fundamental principle of fair land acquisition.
The process of land acquisition has also been marred by allegations of fraudulent activities, with some landowners claiming that their lands were acquired without their knowledge or consent. This has led to conflicts between the government, corporate entities, and local communities.
Furthermore, large-scale land acquisition has raised concerns about environmental degradation and the impact on livelihoods. The acquisition of land for developmental projects has led to the loss of farmland, the displacement of communities, and the destruction of natural habitats.
The government has a crucial role to play in addressing these issues by ensuring that land acquisition processes are transparent, fair, and compliant with relevant laws and regulations. This includes providing adequate compensation to landowners, engaging with local communities, and conducting thorough environmental impact assessments.
Ultimately, the large-scale land acquisition of the Lekki Peninsula in Ibeju Lekki highlights the need for a more equitable and sustainable approach to land management, one that balances development needs with the rights and interests of local communities
The Lekki Peninsula land acquisition has been marred by several issues, includingยน:
- Inadequate Compensation: Landowners have complained about insufficient compensation for their lands, with some receiving as low as 10,000 Naira (approximately $27 USD) for all crops.
- Lack of Transparency: The government has been criticised for failing to provide clear information about the land acquisition process, including the valuation of lands and compensation payments.
- Displacement and Impoverishment: The acquisition of land has led to the displacement of communities, loss of livelihoods, and impoverishment of affected families.
- Environmental Concerns: The projects have raised environmental concerns, including the destruction of habitats and pollution.
Solutions
Large-scale land acquisition of the Lekki Peninsula in the Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State poses significant challenges to landowners. To address these issues, here are some practical solutions and best practices:
Fair Compensation and Resettlement
Implementing fair compensation and resettlement policies is crucial. This can be achieved by providing landowners with adequate financial compensation, alternative housing, and support for resettlement. The government and investors should engage with landowners to determine fair compensation amounts and resettlement options.
Community Engagement and Participation
Community engagement and participation are essential in large-scale land acquisition. Landowners and local communities should be involved in the decision-making process, and their concerns and suggestions should be taken into account. This can be achieved through public consultations, community meetings, and other forms of engagement.
Transparent and Accountable Governance
Transparent and accountable governance is critical in large-scale land acquisition. The government and investors should ensure that all land deals are transparent, and that landowners have access to information about the acquisition process. This can be achieved through the implementation of open data policies and the establishment of independent oversight bodies.
Sustainable Land Use
Sustainable land use practices should be promoted to ensure that land acquisition benefits both the investors and the local communities. This can be achieved by implementing environmentally friendly practices, such as sustainable agriculture and renewable energy projects.
Capacity Building
Capacity building is essential for landowners and local communities to negotiate fair deals with investors. Training programs can be implemented to educate landowners about their rights, land valuation, and negotiation skills.
Grievance Mechanism
A grievance mechanism should be established to address complaints and concerns from landowners and local communities. This can be achieved by setting up an independent body to investigate and resolve disputes.
International Best Practices
Some international best practices that can be adopted include: - The Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security, which guide responsible land governance and tenure.
- The LAND-at-scale program, which aims to improve land governance and secure land rights for local communities.
By adopting these practical solutions and best practices, the negative impacts of large-scale land acquisition on landowners of the Lekki Peninsula in the Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State can be mitigated, and the benefits of land acquisition can be shared equitably among all stakeholders
Recommendations
Based on the evaluation of the Lekki Peninsula land acquisition, the following recommendations are proposed: - Conduct Comprehensive Impact Assessments: Conduct thorough impact assessments to identify potential risks and benefits associated with land acquisition and development projects.
- Establish an Independent Valuation Board: Establish an independent valuation board to determine fair compensation for landowners and ensure transparency in the valuation process.
- Fair Compensation: Ensure fair and adequate compensation for landowners, reflecting the market value of their land. Implement a transparent and efficient compensation process, providing landowners with a clear understanding of the valuation methodology and payment procedures.
- Community Engagement: Foster community engagement and participation in the land acquisition process. Establish a platform for landowners to express their concerns, provide feedback, and participate in decision-making, ensuring their voices are heard and valued.
- Sustainable Land Use: Promote sustainable land use practices, balancing development needs with environmental and social considerations. Encourage environmentally friendly projects, such as renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, to ensure long-term benefits for landowners and the community.
- Capacity Building: Provide capacity-building programs for landowners, enhancing their negotiation skills, land valuation knowledge, and awareness of their rights. Empower landowners to make informed decisions and effectively engage with investors and government agencies.
- Grievance Mechanism: Establish an independent and accessible grievance mechanism to address complaints and concerns from landowners. Ensure prompt and fair resolution of disputes, providing landowners with a trusted channel for seeking redress and resolving issues.
- Transparency and Accountability: Ensure transparency in all land deals, making information on land acquisition, compensation, and project details publicly available. Hold government agencies and investors accountable for their actions, enforcing strict adherence to laws and regulations.
- Resettlement and Livelihood Support: Develop and implement resettlement plans that prioritise landowners’ livelihoods and well-being. Provide support for alternative livelihoods, vocational training, and social services, ensuring landowners can maintain their standard of living and rebuild their lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, large-scale land acquisition of the Lekki Peninsula in the Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State has significant implications for landowners. The issues surrounding land acquisition, including inadequate compensation, lack of consultation, and environmental degradation, highlight the need for a more equitable and sustainable approach to land management. To address these challenges, it is essential to implement fair compensation and resettlement policies, promote community engagement and participation, and ensure transparent and accountable governance. By adopting international best practices and prioritising the rights and interests of landowners, the government and investors can work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all stakeholders. Ultimately, the large-scale land acquisition of the Lekki Peninsula serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing development needs with the rights and interests of local communities, and the need for a more nuanced and context-specific approach to land acquisition.
ESV Bakare Hakeem Olalekan Mnivs. Rsv. is an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) and Director of Land Regularisation at the Lands Bureau, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State.
Phone Number: 08023109230. E-mail: hobakare@gmail.com
Office Address: Block 13/14, Directorate of Lands Regularisation, Lands Bureau, The Secretariat, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos State
