A’Ibom government warns land speculators against fraudsters

The Akwa Ibom State Government has warned all land speculators to beware of fraudsters by getting government’s approval before purchasing any parcel of land.

This warning was given by the state Commissioner for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Ime Ekpo, during a press conference recently in Uyo.

According to him, a lot of people have been swindled by fraudsters over inadequate information of the parcel of land they want to buy.

“We manage lands effectively for the state government, we hold the registration of lands and there is no land in the state that is not registered, and we issue certificate of occupancy to rightful land owners.

“So many unsuspecting members of the public have been swindled by fraudsters, I will encourage everyone to seek proper information from the ministry of lands and natural resources before purchasing any land,” he said.

Ekpo said the state government has not authorized the selling of any estate and that those who are selling them have not received approval of government.

Commenting on the issue of raising unauthorized structures, he said that the state government would not give any notice to illegal properties before its demolition.

He cautioned members of the public to desist from raising structures under high-tension cables, adding that, such practice in any eventuality could lead to serious disaster.

However, he debunked the allegation of property fraud under his ministry, adding that, fake information lacks facts and figures to be taken seriously.

He said the alleged property was private owned and had nothing to do with his ministry, stressing that, it was unlawful to change title of property owners.