“Ondo State Mandates Legal Practitioners for Land Transactions to Combat Grabbing”
The Ondo State government has introduced a new mandate requiring the involvement of legal practitioners in all land transactions as part of its ongoing efforts to tackle land grabbing and curb the illegal activities of speculators. This legislation aims to resolve frequent disputes over land issues and ensure that all land dealings are properly documented and authenticated.
Dr. Kayode Ajulo SAN, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, revealed this move during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). He explained that the government’s initiative is aimed at protecting landowners from illegal encroachments and abuse by interlopers.
The government has made it compulsory for legal professionals to oversee the franking and documentation of all land transactions, ensuring that all parties involved have access to competent legal guidance. Furthermore, Ajulo emphasized that legal aid services have been expanded to ensure that underprivileged citizens have access to professional legal representation.
As part of efforts to reduce congestion in the court system, the state has also partnered with the private sector to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms. This initiative seeks to offer a faster, more efficient means of resolving legal matters without the need for lengthy court battles.
Tackling Cyberbullying and Defamation
Dr. Ajulo also addressed concerns about the rise of cyberbullying and the abuse of free speech laws. While acknowledging the importance of free speech in a democratic society, he condemned the growing trend of individuals using these laws to engage in malicious attacks, including defamation and character assassination, particularly against public officials.
He raised alarms over the use of social media as a tool for spreading falsehoods, cyber harassment, and misinformation. “The unfortunate reality is that social media platforms have become weapons of destruction for some individuals, who use them to spread malicious content under the guise of free speech,” Ajulo stated.
He highlighted the negative impact this has on governance, development, and public trust, especially when public officials, who represent the state at vital business meetings, are unjustly discredited. “When the character of public officials is assassinated, it sends a wrong signal to investors and stakeholders, ultimately affecting our development prospects,” Ajulo added.
While reaffirming the Governor Aiyedatiwa-led administration’s commitment to upholding democratic principles, Ajulo made it clear that the government would not tolerate any form of cyber harassment or defamatory actions. He emphasized that the government would apply sanctions in accordance with the law and ensure that justice is served, even if it meant facing significant challenges.
Strict Enforcement of Cybercrime Laws
Ajulo also stressed the need for responsible use of free speech. He said the Ondo government believes in open dialogue, but such dialogue must be conducted with accountability and respect. He warned that the government would no longer sit idly by as individuals use digital platforms to harm others, adding that strict enforcement of cybercrime laws would commence immediately.
Those found guilty of engaging in targeted harassment, cyberbullying, or defamatory activities would face the full weight of the law. Monitoring systems have been set up to track and prosecute offenders, ensuring that the dignity of all citizens is protected, and the integrity of governance is upheld.
The Ondo State government has made it clear that it will not tolerate digital platforms being used as weapons of destruction and is prepared to take decisive action to safeguard the well-being of its people and the state’s development agenda.
