The Imo State Government has issued a strong public warning over the alleged illegal sale and encroachment on government-owned land at Redemption Estate Phases 1, 2 and 3 located in Avu, Owerri West Local Government Area.
In a public notice released on Monday by the Office of the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, authorities disclosed that credible reports had emerged indicating that certain individuals and land speculators were unlawfully selling and allocating plots within the estate. These individuals were said to be falsely claiming to represent the Imo State Housing Corporation.
The statement, signed by Special Adviser Nze Nwaneri, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding public property and ensuring strict compliance with the Land Use Act 1978 and other land administration regulations.
According to the notice, no approval or authorization has been granted for the sale or allocation of land within the estate. The government emphasized that all such transactions are illegal, null, and void.
“The state government hereby categorically states that no approval, authorisation or directive has been issued for the sale or allocation of land in the said estate,” the statement read.
Authorities further stressed that these activities violate the provisions of the Land Use Act, which vests ownership and control of all land within a state in the governor.
As part of immediate enforcement measures, the government directed all individuals who have encroached on the land or erected structures—including fences, beacons, or other demarcations—to vacate the premises within seven days from the date of the notice.
Failure to comply, the government warned, will result in strict enforcement actions. These include the demolition of illegal structures, revocation of any purported land claims, and the arrest and prosecution of those involved in the unlawful dealings.
The public was also advised to exercise caution and refrain from purchasing land within the affected estate, as the government will not be held responsible for any financial losses arising from such illegal transactions.
