One of the major issues that beset the process of purchasing land in Nigeria is the verification of the authenticity of land titles. Without due diligence, one could fall victim to land scam artists who exploit the ignorance and naivety of unsuspecting buyers. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to verify land title authenticity in Nigeria. It will help the reader to understand the importance of this crucial step and offer a step-by-step guide to successfully confirm the legitimacy of land titles.
Understanding the Importance of Verifying Land Title Authenticity
Purchasing land is a significant investment that involves a large sum of money. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the land title is authentic and the seller is the legitimate owner of the land. Verifying land title authenticity helps to protect your investment against potential land disputes and fraud. In Nigeria, land disputes are a common occurrence due to issues such as double allocation, identity of the title holder, and the legality of the documents presented by the seller. Therefore, it is crucial to verify the land title to avoid falling into such predicaments.
The process of verification also ensures that the land is free from Government acquisition. The Nigerian Government has the authority to acquire any land for overriding public interest. If the land you intend to purchase falls under this category, you run the risk of losing your investment. Finally, verifying the authenticity of a land title provides peace of mind. It assures you that your investment is secure, and you can confidently proceed with development plans for the land without worrying about potential disputes or claims.
Step-by-step Guide to Confirming Land Title Authenticity in Nigeria
The first step to confirming land title authenticity is to conduct a physical inspection of the land. This involves visiting the site to confirm its existence and its boundaries. During this process, inquire about the history of the land from the local residents. They can provide valuable information about previous disputes or claims related to the land.
The second step is to request for the land documents from the seller. These documents include the Deed of Assignment, the Certificate of Occupancy, and the Survey Plan. Make sure to cross-check the details on these documents with the physical attributes of the land. For instance, the Survey Plan should accurately depict the size, shape, and location of the land. After obtaining these documents, you should conduct a thorough search at the Land Registry to confirm that the documents are registered and the details tally with official records.
The final step involves hiring a lawyer to conduct a legal search. The lawyer can help ascertain the authenticity of the land documents and also carry out a search at the Corporate Affairs Commission if the land is owned by a company. This search will reveal whether the company is duly registered and has the legal capacity to own and sell the land. Finally, the lawyer will also check if the land is under any litigation or if there are any encumbrances on the land.
In conclusion, verifying the authenticity of a land title in Nigeria involves a thorough and meticulous process. It requires a combination of physical inspection, document verification at the Land Registry, and a legal search conducted by a lawyer. The process may seem daunting, but it is a necessary step to protect your investment and avoid future land disputes. Remember, the best way to secure your investment in land is to ensure that the land title is authentic and free from any encumbrances or litigations.
