APPRAISAL OF LEGAL MEASURES IN CURTAILING LAND GRABBING IN THE SOUTHWESTERN REGION OF NIGERIA

Abstract

Land is a vital natural resource that plays a crucial role in the well-being and survival of humanity. As the global population and capital continue to grow, the demand for land is rising every day. Unfortunately, this has led to situations where governments, private individuals, and corporations are forcibly taking land from its rightful owners. Land grabbing is worrisome as it is prevalent in Nigeria, and most especially in the southwest region. This article aims to analyze the legal measures put in place to curb land grabbing in the southwest region of Nigeria. It further seeks to assess the effectiveness of these existing legal measures (if any). This article takes a doctrinal approach, focusing on a thorough analysis and assessment of both the theoretical foundations and the real-world effects of the existing legal framework. The findings of this study show that despite the introduction of laws, there are still major hurdles to overcome in order to reach their intended goals. It recommends not only the amendment of legislative instruments but also the harmonization of statutory law with established customary practices.