How to Verify if a Landed Property is Genuine in Abuja

A Comprehensive Guide to Verifying Land Legitimacy in Abuja

Buying land in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, is a significant investment, and it’s essential to ensure the land’s legitimacy to avoid falling prey to fraudsters. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to verifying land legitimacy in Abuja, covering all necessary documents, searches, and consultations.

Step 1: Check the Land Title

Obtain a copy of the land title document from the seller, which should include:

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): The primary document proving ownership of land in Abuja.
Deed of Assignment: Transfers ownership from one person to another, which must be registered with the appropriate land registry.
Land Grant/Allocation Letter: Issued by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) or other relevant authorities for land allocation.

Verify the title with the Abuja Land Registry to confirm its authenticity and check for any encumbrances or legal issues.

Step 2: Conduct a Land Search

Visit the Abuja Land Registry Office to conduct a land search, providing relevant information about the land, including:

Land title
Location
Survey plan (if available)
Other relevant details

The Land Registry will provide a report on the property’s status, including ownership history and any existing encumbrances or legal issues.

Step 3: Verify the Abuja Land Seller’s Identity and Ownership

Cross-check the seller’s name against the land title document and the records at the Land Registry to ensure:

The seller’s name matches the one on the title document
The seller has the authority to sell the land

Compare the information in the land registry report with the title deed provided by the seller.

Step 4: Inspect the Land Physically

Conduct a physical inspection of the land to:

Confirm its condition
Check for signs of dispute or encroachment
Verify the land’s boundaries match the description in the title documents

Step 5: Consult a Legal Professional

Engage a real estate lawyer to:

Review all documents and ensure everything is in order
Conduct a title search on your behalf to ensure the land is free from legal issues and disputes
Assist with the legal processes involved in transferring ownership to you

Step 6: Check for Government Approval

Verify the land has the necessary government approvals, including:

Land use approval from the FCTA
Confirmation that the land is within a designated development plan
Information on any planned government projects that might affect the land

Step 7: Review the Sale Agreement

Carefully review the sale agreement to ensure it:

Clearly outlines the terms of the sale
Includes the payment schedule, transfer of ownership, and any conditions attached
Has been reviewed by your lawyer to ensure it is legally sound and protects your interests

Step 8: Complete the Transaction Safely

Make payments through secure methods, such as bank transfers, to have clear proof of the transaction. Avoid cash payments without a bank trace. After payment, ensure the land transfer is officially registered with the Abuja Land Registry to finalize the ownership transfer.

Conclusion

Verifying land legitimacy in Abuja requires patience and thorough due diligence. By following these steps, you can make informed decisions and secure your investment in Abuja. Remember to: