Understanding Land Transactions in Nigeria (Osun State Focus)
Land is a highly valuable but contentious asset in Ikirun and throughout Osun State. Many buyers have lost hard-earned money due to inadequate searches and ignorance of customary and statutory land systems. Follow these essential steps:
1. **Site Inspection & Physical Verification**: Visit the land personally. Ask neighbors about ownership history and if there are any pending disputes.
2. **Conduct a Search**:
* **Customary Lands**: Verify ownership with the family head and principal members of the owning compound (e.g., Gboleru, Ara, etc.).
* **Government Land / Certificate of Occupancy**: Conduct a search at the Osun State Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, Osogbo.
3. **Drafting the Deed of Assignment**: Never use a self-made agreement. Always hire a lawyer to draft a proper Deed of Conveyance or Assignment containing precise boundaries, coordinates, and survey plans.