In Nigeria, land ownership is a complex and often contentious issue. For many Nigerians, owning land is not just about having a place to call home or run a business; it’s a significant investment and a symbol of financial security. However, the security of land ownership can be threatened by the government’s power to revoke Certificates of Occupancy (C of O). This article explains the intricacies of C of O revocation in Nigeria, exploring the laws that govern land use, reasons for revocation, and most importantly, how landowners can protect their valuable assets.
What does C of O mean?
A Certificate of Occupancy, commonly referred to as C of O, is a crucial document in Nigerian land ownership. It is an official certification issued by the state government, granting the right of occupancy to a piece of land to an individual, group, or organization. The C of O serves as the highest form of title document for land in Nigeria, providing legal proof of ownership and the right to use the land for a specified purpose and duration.
