The Chairman of the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee, Eugene Okoloise, has disclosed that the state government has so far recovered over 500 public properties unlawfully held by individuals since he assumed office.
Okoloise made this known on Wednesday, November 5, in Benin City while speaking on the newly signed Edo State Public Property Protection Law, 2025, which was signed into law by Governor Monday Okpebholo earlier in the week.
The new legislation establishes the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee as a statutory body responsible for overseeing, safeguarding, and recovering all assets belonging to the state.
The law prescribes a 10-year imprisonment for anyone found guilty of forcefully or violently encroaching on government-owned properties.
“Before now, there was no law empowering us to prosecute offenders,” Okoloise explained.
“But now that the governor has signed this law, there will be no excuse. Anyone caught would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
Okoloise revealed that the government has established a special court dedicated to prosecuting individuals who illegally sell or occupy government lands and buildings.
“To this effect, the government has set up a special court to prosecute anyone who sells or encroaches on government property. As I speak, 500 properties belonging to the state government have been recovered,” he said.
He emphasised that no individual, regardless of status or influence, would be spared under the new law.
“I want to assure Edo people that anyone caught shall be prosecuted in accordance with the law, no matter how highly placed. We are not going to spare anyone or treat anyone specially due to his or her status,” he warned.
To ensure wide awareness, Okoloise said the committee had begun an enlightenment campaign across communities and media outlets to educate residents about the new law.
“We are going to sensitise the general public, including rural dwellers, that there is a new law to prosecute anyone who forcefully enters government property,” he said.
“I have plans to go around media houses to sensitise our people. Briefing you on the new law is part of the enlightenment campaign.”
Naijaonpoint reports that Governor Monday Okpebholo signed the Public Property Protection Law on Monday as part of efforts to curb illegal land grabbing and the misuse of government assets in Edo State.
The move follows increasing reports of encroachment on state-owned lands and buildings, particularly in urban areas. The law, according to officials, is aimed at restoring order, accountability, and respect for public assets across the state.
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