Investing in land is one of the most lucrative real estate opportunities in Nigeria. However, it is also one of the riskiest due to widespread fraud and unethical practices. Many unsuspecting buyers have fallen victim to scams, losing their hard-earned money to fraudulent sellers, fake land documents, and disputed properties. To ensure a safe and successful land purchase, it is crucial to understand the common land scams in Nigeria and how to avoid them.
"Omonile" refers to indigenous landowners, often family members or community representatives, who sell land, especially in Lagos, Rivers state and Ogun states. Some Omonile engage in fraudulent practices such as selling the same land to multiple buyers, demanding additional payments after the purchase, or claiming ownership of government-acquired land.
Conduct thorough due diligence to verify ownership through the Land Registry.
Involve a real estate lawyer to confirm the authenticity of land documents.
Obtain a legally binding Deed of Conveyance and ensure the land is free from disputes.
Avoid paying in cash and insist on proper receipts and agreements.
This occurs when a seller or real estate company allocates the same plot of land to multiple buyers. This is common in estates where fraudulent developers collect payments from several people for the same piece of land.
Verify land ownership with the state’s Land Registry before making any payment.
Request proper land allocation documents and cross-check their authenticity.
Purchase land only from reputable real estate companies with a track record of legitimate transactions.
Ensure your allocation is officially documented and recorded.
Fraudsters often create fake Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), Deeds of Conveyance, and land receipts to deceive buyers. Some even manipulate government records to make fraudulent claims appear genuine.
Verify the land documents with the appropriate government agency, such as the Ministry of Lands.
Request original documents and confirm their authenticity through a lawyer.
Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true—fraudulent sellers often lure buyers with unrealistically low prices.
Some sellers illegally sell land that has been designated by the government for future development projects, roads, or public use. Purchasing such land can result in forceful eviction without compensation.
Conduct a land search at the Surveyor General’s Office to check if the land is under government acquisition.
Request for an excision document or Gazette to confirm that the land has been legally released for private ownership.
Avoid "virgin land" deals that lack clear documentation.
Some real estate companies or individuals claim to be developing estates and sell plots at discounted rates. After collecting payments, they disappear or fail to provide land to buyers.
Research the developer’s history, past projects, and customer reviews.
Visit the site to confirm that development is actually taking place.
Ensure that the company has proper government approvals and valid land titles.
Work with a trusted real estate professional before making any commitment.
Engage Professionals: Work with a certified real estate lawyer and surveyor to verify land documents.
Verify Before You Pay: Never make payments before confirming ownership and land status.
Document Everything: Ensure that all transactions, receipts, and agreements are in writing and properly signed.
Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Offers: If a land deal is significantly cheaper than the market rate, it is a red flag.
Buying land in Nigeria can be a rewarding investment, but it requires caution and due diligence. By understanding common scams and taking preventive measures, you can safeguard your investment and secure genuine property without unnecessary risks.
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