Edo State government vows legal action over illegal allocation of Water Resources lands, prioritizing rural water supply and protection of public property.
The Edo State government has issued a firm warning to officials involved in the unauthorized allocation of lands belonging to the State Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
This comes after revelations that several ministry facilities across the state, including the capital, have been encroached upon by individuals claiming they were given official allocations.
The Commissioner for the Ministry, Hon. Washington Osifo, made this statement during an inspection of affected facilities.
He was accompanied by members of the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee, led by Eugene Okoloise.
The team discovered that some of the encroachers had already begun constructing permanent structures on lands that should remain under government control.
According to the intruders, some allocations were allegedly issued by officials of the Water Corporation, an agency under the ministry.
Speaking during the visit, Osifo stressed that the Edo State government would not allow government lands to fall into private hands.
“These are state-owned properties. The government must have full control over their use and must decide how they should be utilized.
“No individual, regardless of rank or position in the ministry or its agencies, has the authority to allocate government property without proper approval,” he said.
He further clarified that a formal inquiry would be launched to investigate the illegal allocations.
“Some names have already been mentioned by the people we met on the ground. The inquiry will produce detailed reports, and the ministry will take appropriate legal action against anyone found responsible.
“No officer or staff of the ministry or its agencies can legally enter into contractual obligations with private individuals concerning government properties. Any such action is illegal and will be sanctioned,” he stated.
The Commissioner condemned the progression from temporary shanties to permanent concrete structures on ministry lands, warning that such practices would not be tolerated.
“We have observed situations where temporary structures have been replaced by concrete buildings.
“This is a direct violation of state laws and constitutes illegal allocation of public property.
“The Edo State government is committed to reclaiming all affected lands and restoring them for official use,” he added.
In addition to addressing land encroachments, Osifo outlined the government’s plans to improve public water supply.
He said that while urban areas have faced significant challenges due to uncontrolled urbanization and private boreholes, the government would prioritize rural water supply.
“Urban areas have seen distortion in public water infrastructure due to excessive development.
“Roads, drainage systems, electricity investments, and private buildings have changed the landscape. We must first focus on rural communities that critically need water,” Osifo explained.
The Commissioner highlighted that the ministry is assessing the feasibility of extending public water services to urban centers after stabilizing rural water systems.
“Our goal is to ensure that rural communities have access to safe and reliable public water.
“Once that is achieved, we will strategically expand to urban areas. This plan will prevent illegal borehole digging and promote sustainable water access for all citizens,” he added.
The Edo State government also emphasized the importance of safeguarding public assets.
Members of the Public Property Protection Committee stressed that government properties should serve the people and not be exploited for private gain.
“Government lands, especially those under the Water Resources ministry, are meant for public benefit. Any illegal allocation undermines development, transparency, and public trust,” said Eugene Okoloise.
The ministry has promised swift action against all individuals involved in the illegal allocation of lands.
“We will follow due process, identify the culprits, and apply necessary sanctions.
“The Edo State government is serious about protecting public property, ensuring legal compliance, and promoting accountable governance,” Osifo affirmed.
Analysts believe that this initiative by the Edo State government could serve as a model for other states struggling with unauthorized land allocations.
The combination of property reclamation and improved rural water supply demonstrates a commitment to both legal compliance and the welfare of citizens.
Residents have welcomed the government’s stance, describing it as a step in the right direction.
Many noted that the illegal allocation of public lands had previously created confusion, encroachment disputes, and delays in development projects.
“We are glad the government is taking action. Reclaiming these lands will allow proper planning and benefit everyone, especially in terms of water resources and infrastructure,” one resident commented.
The ministry plans to maintain strict oversight of all its properties and agencies to prevent future occurrences of unauthorized land allocation.
By coupling this with efforts to expand rural water supply, the Edo State government aims to enhance public service delivery, ensure legal compliance, and reinforce the integrity of state resources.
The initiative highlights the state’s determination to hold officials accountable, protect public property, and address critical community needs.
By prioritizing rural communities and enforcing strict measures against illegal allocations, the Edo State government reinforces its commitment to good governance and equitable resource management.
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