By : Ogine Victor
As part of frantic efforts towards tackling corruption associated with the manual issuance of certificates of occupancy, and other land matters in Zamfara, the state government has ordered the revocation of all existing land titles in the state.
Mr. Yusuf Gusau, Media Aide to Governor Bello Matawalle, made this known at the flag-off of the issuance of electronic certificates of occupancy on Thursday.
Mr. Gusau noted that property owners in the state have now been directed to apply through the Zamfara geographic information system (ZAGIS) for “recertification of their respective titles with the new policy of granting electronic certificates”.
According to him, “All problems associated with land transactions will be resolved with the use of modern technology as the recertification of all land titles will assist in the current fight against banditry and sundry crimes
“Owners of all land titles would now have their records available in a secured database; and that the new e-C of Os would also make it easier for financial institutions to check the authenticity of certificates for those who choose to use them as collateral for bank loans.”
Mr. Gusau further said that persons making fresh applications for land titles are also expected to apply through ZAGIS, just as landowners have been urged to come forward and certify their titles and also to pay their ground rents as and when due.
No doubt that the security situation in Zamfara state has continued to pose a serious threat to the socio-economic development of the state. Insecurity is escalating state, with daily killings and kidnappings by armed bandits leaving villagers in constant fear of attack.
