Last year, a client of mine purchased two plots of land from a local community. Everything seemed fine—until we started laying the foundation.
A man suddenly appeared, claiming ownership of one of the plots. My client immediately contacted the community chairman to resolve the issue. After heated arguments, it was revealed that the land had been resold to someone else without his knowledge.
Though the community offered him an alternative plot, it was in a less developed area—far from his original plans, but thank God he could still get a replacement.
This experience taught him a hard lesson about due diligence in land acquisition. Thankfully, I later guided him on the proper steps to verify land authenticity, ensuring he never fell victim to such fraud again.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to verifying the authenticity of a piece of land before making a purchase:
1. Inspect the Land Physically
Visit the land in person to confirm its location, boundaries, and accessibility.
Look out for signs of encumbrance such as disputed claims, existing structures, or ongoing activities.
Speak with neighbors to gather information about the land’s history and ownership.
2. Verify Ownership Documents
Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): This document proves the land is legally owned. Ensure it is valid and issued by the appropriate authority.
Deed of Assignment/Conveyance: Check if the land has been transferred to the seller legally.
(c) Survey Plan: Confirm the land’s boundaries and that it is not on government-acquired or restricted land.
(d) Governor’s Consent: If the land has been previously sold, the seller should have this document.
3. Conduct a Search at the Land Registry
Visit the state’s Land Registry where the land is located (e.g., Lagos State Land Bureau for Lagos).
Verify that the land title is registered and free from encumbrances.
Cross-check the landowner’s name and ensure there are no pending court cases or mortgages on the land.
4. Check the Land’s Zoning and Usage
Confirm that the land’s usage aligns with your intended purpose (e.g., residential, agricultural, or commercial).
Check with the Urban Planning Authority to ensure the land is not zoned for public use or under government acquisition.
5. Engage a Professional
Hire a licensed surveyor to verify the land’s boundaries and confirm it is not on restricted areas like pipelines, roads, or waterways.
Consult a property lawyer to review all documents and handle legal due diligence.
6. Verify Community or Family Land Claims
For family or community lands, meet with the traditional rulers, family heads, or relevant representatives to confirm ownership.
Ensure all parties involved in the sale agree to the transaction and provide valid documentation.
7. Beware of Red Flags
Avoid deals that sound too good to be true.
Stay away from sellers who cannot provide proper documentation or insist on verbal agreements.
Be cautious of agents or sellers who pressure you to make quick payments without thorough verification.
8. Make Payment through the Right Channels
Use traceable payment methods such as bank transfers for transparency.
Ensure a deed of sale is signed in the presence of a lawyer and other witnesses.