AND PURCHASES REQUIRE PROPER DUE DILIGENCE
Buying land in Nigeria is one of the most important financial decisions anyone can make. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most fraud-prone areas of Nigerian law. Every year, countless buyers lose millions because they failed to conduct proper checks before making payment. The truth is this: when it comes to land, due diligence is not optional — it is your strongest protection.
Understanding what to verify before buying land can save you from court cases, financial loss, and emotional stress. Below is what every land buyer in Nigeria must do before committing to any transaction.
VERIFY OWNERSHIP FROM THE LAND REGISTRY
The first and most important step is to confirm who truly owns the land. Fraudsters often parade fake documents or claim to be “family representatives.” The Land Registry will show:
• The registered owner
• Whether the land has been sold before
• Whether the document presented to you is genuine
• Any existing disputes, encumbrances, or mortgages
Do not rely on the seller’s word alone. Always cross-check with official records.
ENSURE THE LAND IS NOT UNDER GOVERNMENT ACQUISITION
Many lands in Nigeria fall under “government acquisition” or are marked for future government use. Buyers who purchase such land often face demolition or eviction without compensation. Before you pay for any land, verify:
• If the land has been excised
• If it is freehold
• If the government has any overriding interest
A simple search can help you avoid paying for land that you will never be able to use.
CONFIRM SURVEY PLANS AND EXCISION STATUS
Fraudulent or outdated survey plans are common tricks used to deceive buyers. You must ensure:
• The survey is professionally done by a licensed surveyor
• The coordinates match the exact land being sold
• The land falls within a legally excised area
• The survey aligns with government mapping
This helps you confirm that what you are shown on paper truly exists on ground.
SIGN A DEED OF ASSIGNMENT WITH PROPER WITNESSES
A Deed of Assignment is the official document that transfers ownership of land from the seller to the buyer. Without this document, you have no legal proof of ownership. Ensure that:
• The Deed is drafted by a qualified lawyer
• Both parties sign it clearly
• There are at least two credible witnesses
• The document is stamped and registered with the government
Registration protects your title and prevents future disputes.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Land purchase requires more than just seeing the property and paying the seller. Proper due diligence protects your investment, prevents fraud, and gives you peace of mind. Whether you are buying land for residential use, business, or investment, always follow the right legal process and allow a lawyer to guide you.
Rushing or trusting verbal assurances can cost you everything.
NEED HELP VERIFYING LAND DOCUMENTS OR BUYING LAND SAFELY?
Our legal team at Ajibade Chambers provides professional due diligence services, land verification, and legal documentation to ensure you buy land with complete confidence.
