Benin, Edo – In a decisive move to combat corruption and protect communal resources, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has assented to the Edo State Public Property Protection Law, 2025.

The legislation, signed into effect Tuesday, establishes robust mechanisms to prevent the misuse, encroachment, and illegal appropriation of public assets, signaling a zero-tolerance stance against impunity in governance.

The new law creates the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee, a dedicated statutory body tasked with the oversight, safeguarding, and recovery of all state-owned properties.

According to official statements from the governor's office, the committee will have sweeping powers to conduct inspections, seal off encroached sites, investigate disputes, and partner with law enforcement to enforce compliance. It is also authorized to pursue legal action via the Ministry of Justice against violators, ensuring swift accountability.

"This law is a clear demonstration of our administration's commitment to zero tolerance for corruption, impunity, and misuse of government property," Governor Okpebholo declared during the signing ceremony, adding, "Public assets belong to the people of Edo State, not individuals. No one, no matter how highly placed, can appropriate public property for private gain."

His remarks underscore a broader reform agenda aimed at restoring institutional discipline and transparency, building on earlier actions such as the recent ultimatum issued to a former deputy governor to return state properties.

The law introduces severe penalties to deter offenses, reflecting the administration's emphasis on deterrence.

Unauthorized sale or transfer of government property without the Governor's consent, attract up to 5 years imprisonment.

Violent or forceful entry into state-owned property, attract up to 10 years imprisonment, based on severity.

Aiding or abetting illegal land transactions involving state property, will attract prosecution and referral to professional bodies for disciplinary action.

Filing false petitions or fraudulent claims related to government lands, will attract severe penalties to prevent abuse of process.

These measures are designed not only to punish but also to reclaim lost assets, with the committee empowered to identify and recover encroached properties across the state. Professionals involved in fraudulent dealings, such as land grabbers or complicit surveyors, will face both criminal and regulatory consequences, addressing long-standing issues of land speculation that have plagued Edo's development.

The signing comes amid Okpebholo's ongoing push for fiscal and administrative renewal, following the approval of the N675 billion 2025 budget earlier this year, which prioritizes infrastructure and economic revival.

Analysts view the law as a timely intervention, especially in light of past controversies over land disputes, including recent community engagements in areas like Oke-Oroma in Benin City. It echoes earlier efforts under previous administrations to curb land grabbing but goes further by institutionalizing a permanent oversight body.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice hailed the legislation as a "critical instrument for institutional renewal and the protection of Edo’s moral and material heritage," predicting it will boost investor confidence by ensuring a stable environment for legitimate development.