*Urge NBA to push for national legislation

Legal practitioners across Nigeria have commended the Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, for making legal involvement mandatory in land transactions, describing it as a progressive step toward eradicating land grabbing and fraudulent dealings.

Some lawyers argue that while Ondo State has taken a bold initiative, a national law is needed to solidify and extend this reform across Nigeria. “This is commendable, but I think a national legislation is needed to push this through,” said one legal practitioner.

In addition, some lawyers are calling on Afam Osigwe, SAN, the President the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to adopt this initiative and champion a bill that will make legal representation compulsory in all land transactions nationwide. They argue that this will not only protect citizens from fraudulent dealings but also create more employment opportunities for lawyers.

Why the NBA Should Act Now

Legal professionals advocating for national legislation emphasize the importance of hiring lawyers in land transactions and list the following key reasons:

Preventing Fraud – Lawyers conduct title verifications and due diligence to ensure that buyers do not fall victim to fraudulent land sales. Ensuring Proper Documentation – A lawyer ensures that all land transactions comply with legal requirements, preventing future disputes. Drafting Airtight Agreements – Legal practitioners craft contracts that protect buyers, sellers, and investors from potential loopholes. Reducing Litigation – With proper legal oversight, disputes can be prevented before they arise, reducing the burden on the courts. Legal Representation in Disputes – When conflicts occur, having a lawyer ensures that one’s rights are protected in legal proceedings. With the NBA being the leading legal body in Nigeria, stakeholders are urging the association to take decisive action by proposing a bill at the National Assembly that would make legal representation mandatory in all land transactions.

The call for legislative action is gaining momentum, and legal experts believe that such a law will protect citizens, streamline property transactions, and boost employment for legal professionals. The question remains—will the NBA step up to push this initiative forward?

In this article