A fresh legal storm brews in Anambra State as activist Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Okonkwo sues Governor Charles Soludo and three others over a contentious land document recertification and revalidation exercise. The lawsuit, filed before the High Court in Awka, alleges that the state government’s actions violate federal legislation and the Nigerian Constitution.
Okonkwo’s case revolves around the N25,000 fee imposed on landowners for recertification, which he claims lacks legal backing under the Land Use Act of 1978. “This exercise is not only unconstitutional but amounts to mega financial fraud,” Okonkwo declared in his court filings. He further alleged that the funds collected are being funneled to support Soludo’s re-election campaign ahead of the November 2025 gubernatorial elections.
The Lawsuit and Core Allegations
In the suit, numbered A/23/2025, Okonkwo challenges the legality of the public notice issued by the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Urban Planning, which mandated landowners to revalidate their property documents. The notice, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Nkeiru Mokwe, triggered widespread concerns among property owners in the state.
Okonkwo is seeking the court’s interpretation of key sections of the Land Use Act, including Sections 5, 6, 8, and 50, to determine whether the governor and other state officials have the authority to demand such recertification. He argues that the exercise violates provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, Cap. T2 LFN 2011.
“The imposition of this fee is a flagrant abuse of power,” Okonkwo stated. “It violates the rights of Anambra citizens and exposes them to unwarranted financial exploitation under the guise of governance.”
Legal and Financial Implications
In his 14-paragraph affidavit, Okonkwo demands a declaratory order to halt the recertification exercise. He is also seeking N10 billion in exemplary damages, accusing the state government of using the scheme to exploit citizens.
“The N25,000 charge is neither an edict nor a subsidiary instrument under the Land Use Act,” he argued. “It is simply an illegal means of defrauding the people of Anambra State.”
Okonkwo further alleges that the funds generated from this exercise are being diverted to personal and political purposes. “This illegal scheme is designed to finance Governor Soludo’s re-election campaign under false pretenses,” he claimed.
A Call for Police Investigation
The activist also named the Commissioner of Police as a defendant in the case, requesting a thorough investigation into the matter. He has called on the Inspector-General of Police to recover all funds collected under the program and ensure the prosecution of those involved.
“The Police must investigate this fraudulent scheme and hold the perpetrators accountable,” he urged.
Soludo’s Administration Under Scrutiny
The lawsuit is the latest in a series of criticisms leveled against Governor Soludo’s administration. Earlier this year, the governor announced a crackdown on illegal land acquisition and launched initiatives to improve land administration in the state. However, critics argue that the current recertification exercise undermines these efforts.
Observers note that this case could have far-reaching implications for land governance in Nigeria. The Land Use Act of 1978, a federal legislation, vests authority over land allocation in state governors. However, Okonkwo argues that this authority does not extend to imposing taxes outside the provisions of existing laws.
Activist’s Plea for Justice
As a landowner himself, Okonkwo expressed concerns that failure to address the issue could result in the loss of property rights for many Anambra residents. “If this court fails to act, thousands of property owners in this state will be disenfranchised and exposed to irreparable harm,” he warned.
He also highlighted the lack of transparency in the recertification process, describing it as a scam orchestrated by government officials. “This is a clear case of obtaining money under false pretenses. The people of Anambra deserve better from their leaders,” he stated.
Reliefs Sought by the Plaintiff
Okonkwo is seeking 13 reliefs from the court, including:
- A declaration that the recertification exercise is illegal and unconstitutional.
- An order for the refund of all fees collected from landowners.
- A perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from implementing the recertification exercise in the future.
- An investigation by the Police into the alleged financial fraud.
He also urged the court to declare that the state government’s actions amount to a violation of citizens’ rights under the Constitution.
Awaiting Court Hearing
No date has been set for the hearing of the case, but legal experts predict it could set a significant precedent for land administration in Nigeria. If successful, the lawsuit could compel state governments to align their policies with federal laws and ensure greater accountability in land governance.
