Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has halted the issuance of land certificates statewide following reports that a 17-year-old allegedly owns 14,000 hectares of land, a development described as highly unusual.
The suspension comes as the government launches a thorough investigation into how the teenager acquired such a vast tract of land.
Governor Okpebholo described the situation as “unprecedented and alarming” and stressed that no land certificates will be issued until the inquiry is complete.
“This is a matter of public concern. Our priority is to verify records and ensure all land acquisitions comply fully with the law,” the governor said.
Edo State’s land administration system, overseen by the Ministry of Lands and Survey, requires proof of age, identity, and legitimate acquisition for all land allocations.
The case raises concerns about possible fraud, irregular allocations, or lapses in record management.
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Governor Okpebholo has directed the Land Use and Allocation Committee and the Ministry of Lands to audit land holdings and confirm the legality of all transactions linked to the teenager.
Analysts say the move highlights ongoing challenges in regulating land ownership amid rapid urbanisation and rising demand for residential, commercial, and industrial land.
The governor assured residents and investors that lawful land transactions will resume once verification and safeguards are completed.
The public has been urged to exercise patience and cooperate with authorities while the investigation continues.