When purchasing land in Nigeria, it is important to confirm that the land you want to buy is not under dispute. This will help you avoid costly legal battles and ensure that you have legal ownership of the land. Here are some steps you can take to confirm that the land you want to buy is not under dispute:
- Conduct a search at the Land Registry: The Land Registry is a government agency responsible for maintaining records of land ownership in Nigeria. You can conduct a search at the Land Registry to confirm that the land you want to buy is not under dispute. This will involve paying a fee and submitting the relevant details of the land.
- Engage the services of a lawyer: A competent lawyer can help you conduct a thorough search on the land to confirm that it is not under dispute. The lawyer will search the court records, interview relevant parties, and obtain information from the Land Registry to ensure that the land is free from any legal disputes.
- Conduct a community search: In some cases, land disputes may arise from conflicts within the community. You can conduct a community search to confirm that the land you want to buy is not under dispute. This will involve speaking to community leaders, elders, and other relevant parties to obtain information about the land.
- Obtain a Search Report: A search report is a document that provides information about the land, including its ownership status and whether it is under dispute. You can obtain a search report from the Land Registry or engage the services of a lawyer to obtain one.
- Conduct a physical inspection: It is important to conduct a physical inspection of the land you want to buy. This will help you identify any potential issues with the land, such as encumbrances, boundary disputes, or other problems.
In conclusion, confirming that the land you want to buy is not under dispute is an important step in purchasing land in Nigeria. It is important to conduct a thorough search, engage the services of a competent lawyer, and conduct a physical inspection to ensure that the land is free from any legal disputes. By taking these steps, you can avoid costly legal battles and ensure that you have legal ownership of the land.
