Stakeholders have called on the Delta State Government to take immediate action to address the escalating crisis of unregulated land acquisition, which is resulting in the displacement of families, erosion of cultural heritage, and social unrest across communities. The call was made during the 12th anniversary celebration of Ndokwa Reporters, which featured the unveiling of its flagship annual policy platform, the BEL Dialogue.
The dialogue, themed “Development or Displacement: Understanding the Cost of Unregulated Land Acquisition in Our Communities – The Role of Government and Traditional Institutions in Safeguarding Community Lands,” brought together policymakers, civil society leaders, property developers, and communication experts. Participants called for a comprehensive review of the 1978 Land Use Act, citing loopholes and misuse that leave local communities vulnerable to land grabbing.
Rt. Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai, Chairman of the dialogue, emphasized the urgency of tackling the problem, citing recent protests by the Umuseti Community of Utagba Uno in Ndokwa West over unauthorized land sales. “While development brings opportunities, reckless land acquisitions displace families, erode cultural heritage, and destabilize communities,” Ossai said.
The event featured keynote addresses and panel discussions, with experts stressing the need for transparency in land acquisition and administration. Mr. Emmanuel O. Enebeli, President and CEO of BEL Media Consult Limited, described the event as “historic” and reaffirmed the mission of promoting accountability in governance and amplifying grassroots voices.
The BEL Dialogue aims to strengthen collaboration between communities, government, and civil society, with the goal of producing practical, people-focused policy recommendations for responsible and inclusive development. The session is expected to produce a communiqué outlining strategies for transparent and sustainable land administration in Delta State.
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