By Peter Omopo | October 10, 2025
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has reportedly ordered an investigation into a shocking case involving a 17-year-old who allegedly purchased 14,000 hectares of land and paid in full.
According to sources within the state government, the governor directed the Ministry of Lands and the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS) to launch an immediate probe to verify the authenticity of the transaction, the identity of the buyer, and the legality of the land sale.
Preliminary reports indicate that the teenager, whose name has not yet been released for legal reasons, allegedly completed payment for the massive expanse of land located in one of the state’s rural communities. The transaction reportedly raised suspicion among local authorities and community leaders, prompting calls for a government inquiry.
A senior government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the development as “highly unusual and potentially fraudulent,” adding that Governor Obaseki has zero tolerance for questionable land dealings in the state.
“The governor has directed that a full investigation be carried out to determine how a minor could acquire such a vast property, who facilitated the transaction, and whether due process was followed,” the source said.
The state government is also said to be collaborating with law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Police, to trace the source of the funds used in the purchase.
Legal experts have raised questions about the validity of any land ownership claim made by a minor under Nigerian law, noting that individuals under 18 cannot legally enter binding property agreements.
Meanwhile, residents in the affected area have expressed concern over the alleged sale, which they say may involve land belonging to multiple families and communities.
As of press time, neither the alleged buyer nor representatives of the families involved had issued an official statement. The Edo State Government is expected to release a formal update once preliminary findings are concluded.
This development comes amid ongoing efforts by the state to sanitize land administration and curb illegal property transactions across Edo.
