Kayode Ajulo has warned that Ondo State’s anti-land grabbing law will be enforced strictly, stressing that no offender will be protected from prosecution.
Ajulo, who also heads the state’s Anti-Land Grabbing Task Force, spoke while reacting to the ongoing trial of Oba David Okunato and others over alleged land-grabbing offences.
An Akure Magistrates’ Court had earlier remanded the traditional ruler and other defendants at the Olokuta Correctional Centre pending the fulfilment of their bail conditions.
In a statement issued Friday in Akure, the attorney-general said the state government would continue its clampdown on land grabbers until order is restored in land administration across the state.
He warned that individuals involved in illegal land deals, forceful seizure of property, fraudulent resale of land, and actions capable of triggering communal crises would face legal action.
According to Ajulo, land grabbing threatens investment and economic growth in the state.
“I must tell you that the issue of land grabbing is capable of driving away investors, especially those who genuinely intend to invest in Ondo state.
“We cannot fold our arms and allow criminal elements to destroy the investment climate and peaceful coexistence in our dear state,” he said.
The commissioner noted that the government was sending a “strong and unmistakable message” that impunity in land transactions would no longer be tolerated.
“We are determined to restore confidence in land transactions in Ondo state and reinforce public trust in the government’s commitment to securing lives, investments, and property rights,” he added.
Ajulo also praised Lucky Aiyedatiwa for maintaining a firm stance against land grabbing.
According to him, the governor has made it clear that no individual, regardless of status, would be allowed to threaten peace and development through unlawful land activities.
“The governor has given a clear and uncompromising mandate that land grabbing must be eradicated in Ondo state.
“We remain committed to protecting genuine landowners, safeguarding investors, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails in every part of the state.
“The message remains loud and unmistakable: the crackdown is active and uncompromising. The law is a respecter of no one, and anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” he stated.
