'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has signed into law three critical bills aimed at improving governance and development in the state.
The newly signed legislations, including the Ekiti State Property Protection (Anti-Land Grabbing) Law, 2024, the High Court Law (First Amendment, 2014), and the Ekiti State Legislative House (Powers and Privileges) Law, 2024, are set to reinforce legal and property rights while enhancing the efficiency of the state's legislative and judicial frameworks.
Governor Oyebanji, in a statement, highlighted the significance of these laws, particularly the Anti-Land Grabbing Law, which seeks to safeguard property rights and regulate land transactions within the state. "The Ekiti State Property Protection (Anti-Land Grabbing) Law, 2024 will help protect the rights of property owners and ensure that land transactions are conducted in a fair and transparent manner," the governor said. He assured Ekiti residents that his administration would fully enforce the law, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards land grabbing, regardless of the individuals involved.
The law comes as a response to the rising cases of illegal land seizures, commonly known as "land grabbing," which has been a source of conflict and insecurity for property owners in the state. By enacting this law, the government aims to curb these activities, providing much-needed security for legitimate landowners and restoring public confidence in land transactions.
In addition to the Anti-Land Grabbing Law, Governor Oyebanji also signed the High Court Law (First Amendment, 2014), which aims to strengthen the judicial process in Ekiti State by introducing amendments that will enhance the effectiveness of the state's High Court. The amendments will ensure more efficient case management and quicker dispensation of justice, in line with the administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
The third bill signed into law, the Ekiti State Legislative House (Powers and Privileges) Law, 2024, is designed to reinforce the powers of the Ekiti State House of Assembly. The law grants greater privileges and powers to the legislative arm, allowing it to perform its oversight functions more effectively. This is expected to improve governance by ensuring accountability and transparency in the execution of government policies.
Governor Oyebanji commended the 7th Assembly of Ekiti State for its unwavering support and collaboration, which he described as key to the progress being achieved under his administration. "I want to commend the 7th Assembly for their continued support and cooperation, which has been instrumental in the progress we have made in Ekiti State. Together, we will continue to deliver the dividends of democracy and build a brighter future for our people," he said.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the newly enacted laws would be fully implemented to achieve the desired impact on governance, property rights, and the overall development of the state. The signing of these bills marks another milestone in the Oyebanji administration's efforts to create a conducive environment for investment, protect citizens’ rights, and strengthen institutional frameworks in Ekiti State.
The newly signed laws are expected to address longstanding concerns in the state, offering greater legal protection for residents while fostering an atmosphere of fairness, justice, and good governance.