Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has expressed concern over Nigerians’ contradictory stance on corruption.

Speaking in Abuja on Friday during a visit by officials of the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), led by Chris Olukolade, the director of its board of trustees, Olukoyede noted that while many condemn the issue, they also rally behind corrupt leaders when they face prosecution.

He emphasised that corruption and financial crimes remain significant obstacles to Nigeria’s development and that tackling them requires collective responsibility.

“One of the major problems in Nigeria, which, when tackled, will make under-development a thing of the past, is corruption and financial crimes,” the EFCC Boss stated.

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Olukoyede said progress is not solely the government’s responsibility but also the citizens. According to him, the country will move forward if Nigerians collectively resolve to uphold integrity.

He said: “A society that is ready to move forward is a responsibility not only of the government, but of the citizens.

“This is what has actually led some of us to be very committed to this cause. We are ready to go the whole hog to do what we need to do within the confines and provisions of the law and the power that the Constitution has conferred on us.

“If everybody makes up his or her mind to do the right thing, we’ll move forward in this country.”

Justice Chinyere E. Nwecheonwu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Kuchiako, Kuje, on Thursday, January 30, 2025 rescheduled to February 3, 2025 the arraignment of Professor Usman Yusuf, former Executive Secretary of National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC had on Wednesday, January 29, 2024 arrested Yusuf and brought before the court on Thursday, January 30, 2025 for arraignment on allegations of fraud.

The arraignment was, however, moved to Monday to allow for amendment of the charges.

Though defence counsel, Isah Dokto Haruna, who held brief for the lead defence counsel, O.I.Habeeb, SAN made an application for bail, it was turned down by the court on account of the defendant’s deferred arraignment.

Justice Nwecheonwu adjourned the matter till February 3, 2025, for arraignment and ruled that the defendant be remanded in the custody of the Commission.

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As the issue of land ownership continues to generate debate among Nigerians, it is essential to clarify the legal framework governing land ownership in the country. Contrary to popular belief, individuals do not have outright ownership of land in Nigeria.

The Land Use Act: A Framework for Land Ownership

The Land Use Act of 1978 is the primary legislation governing land ownership in Nigeria. Section 1 of the Act vests all land in each state in the governor of that state, who holds it in trust for the people. This means that the government has ultimate control over all land within its territory.

Certificate of Occupancy: A Lease Agreement

When an individual purchases land or is allocated a plot, they are issued a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). However, this document does not confer outright ownership on the holder. Instead, it represents a lease agreement between the government and the individual, granting the latter the right to occupy and use the land for a specified period, usually 99 years.

Implications of the Land Use Act

The Land Use Act has significant implications for land ownership in Nigeria. Key takeaways include:

– All land belongs to the government, which holds it in trust for the people.
– Individuals do not have outright ownership of land; instead, they hold a lease agreement with the government.
– The Certificate of Occupancy is a lease document, not a title deed.
– The government retains the power to revoke or withdraw a C of O if the terms of the lease are breached.

In conclusion, it is essential for Nigerians to understand the legal framework governing land ownership in the country. By recognizing that all land belongs to the government and that individuals hold lease agreements, we can avoid misconceptions and ensure that land transactions are conducted in accordance with the law.