By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has signed into law the Ekiti State Property Protection (Anti-Land Grabbing, Second Amendment) Law, 2024.
The bill was signed into law on Thursday opening a new chapter in the state’s drive for transparency in local and foreign investment.
This legislation aims to regulate and sanitize land acquisition processes in the state, prohibiting forceful entry, illegal occupation, and fraudulent conduct related to landed properties.
Speaking at the event held at the Governor’s Office, Oyebanji emphasized the importance of the new law in addressing longstanding issues related to land disputes in the state.
“For the laws that we are signing today, I am particularly excited about the anti-land grabbing law,” he stated. “it has stunted development, but now that we have a regulatory framework that gives us the legal power, I can assure you that we will implement that law to the letter, no matter who is involved.”
In addition to the anti-land grabbing law, the governor signed two other bills into law: the High Court Law (First Amendment, 2014) and the Ekiti State Legislative House (Powers and Privileges) Law, 2024. Oyebanji highlighted that these laws would contribute to the state’s overall development.
Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the Ekiti State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye, for their support in passing the bills. He acknowledged the legislative body’s role in creating the legal framework needed to implement key policies.
“Without your support, there is no way we would have been able to do anything because you provided a legal framework that enables us to implement most of those decisions that have translated into the outcomes we are all proud of today,” the governor added.
Oyebanji also reassured the people of Ekiti that the next two years would bring even greater accomplishments. ” Going forward, the next two years will be characterised by many achievements that will surpass the first two years as it is said that the reward for hard work is more work.”
Speaker Aribasoye, during the event, emphasized the Assembly’s commitment to working with the executive to advance democratic dividends and foster development in Ekiti.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Deputy Speaker Bolaji Olagbaju, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the House of Assembly, and members of the state executive council.
