Akwa Ibom Government says it is concerned at the rate people are being swindled by fraudsters over inadequate information in the acquisition of land.
Akwa Ibom Commissioner for Lands and Natural Resources, Arc. Ime Ekpo, who stated this during a press conference in Uyo, warned land speculators in the state to beware of fraudsters by obtaining government’s approval before they purchase any land.
“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 are being 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 dismissed as untrue that the state government has not authorized the sale of any estate and that those who are selling them have not received approval of government.
On the raising unauthorized structures, he said that the state government would not give any notice to illegal properties before its demolition.
He cautioned the 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.
Ekpo, however, debunked the allegation of property fraud under his ministry, adding that the fake information lacks facts and figures to be taken seriously.
The commissioner said the alleged property was a private ownership and had nothing to do with his ministry, stressing that it was unlawful to change titles of property owners.
