In a significant policy reversal, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced the reinstatement of ownership rights to a land belonging to former military governor Anthony Ukpo.
The land in question, Plot 319, GRA Phase II, Port Harcourt, is the site of Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited.
This move reverses a controversial decision by Fubara’s predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who had revoked the land’s statutory Right of Occupancy in December 2022, citing public interest.
The property saga dates back to 1998 when a Certificate of Occupancy was issued to Anthony Ukpo for the 2864.64 square meter parcel of land.
In 2001, Ukpo assigned his interests in the property to Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited through a Deed of Assignment.
The situation took a contentious turn in December 2022 when Governor Wike revoked the hotel’s Right of Occupancy, ostensibly for government use.
This revocation was met with public outcry and allegations of political motivation.
Governor Fubara’s decision to overturn the revocation is rooted in a commitment to justice and adherence to due process. Invoking powers under section 28 (5) (a) (b) of the Land Use Act and other relevant statutes, Fubara issued a statement withdrawing and canceling the previous revocation.
This decision effectively restores Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited’s rights over the property and nullifies the prior government’s claim.
“This reinstatement ensures justice and fairness,” stated Governor Fubara in the press release, highlighting the necessity of following legal procedures in property rights matters.
Fubara’s action has been perceived as a move to correct what many viewed as an unjust decision by Wike, restoring confidence in the rule of law and property rights within the state.
The revocation by Wike had been shrouded in controversy from the outset. Opunabo Inko Taria, a former media adviser to Wike, had openly criticized the action, suggesting it was a punitive measure against the hotel for hosting a meeting of supporters of former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar.
This allegation, while never officially confirmed, fueled widespread speculation that the revocation was politically motivated rather than being based on genuine public interest.
Governor Fubara’s reversal of this decision is likely to have broad implications for the perception of governance in Rivers State.
By emphasizing the importance of legal due process, Fubara appears to be distancing his administration from the more autocratic actions of his predecessor.
This move is expected to resonate positively with property owners and investors, who seek a stable and predictable legal environment for their investments.
The reinstatement of Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited’s property rights also underscores a broader message about the sanctity of property ownership and the government’s role in protecting these rights.
In a state where land disputes can be particularly contentious, Fubara’s decision sets a precedent for how similar cases might be handled in the future.
While the immediate beneficiaries of this decision are Anthony Ukpo and Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited, the broader impact is a reaffirmation of the legal protections afforded to property owners.
It signals to the business community that the current administration values fairness and justice over political expediency.
As Rivers State moves forward, the focus will likely be on ensuring that such disputes are handled transparently and in accordance with the law.
Governor Fubara’s administration appears committed to these principles, aiming to foster an environment where property rights are respected and upheld.
land revocation proof. Credit: Sahara Reporters.
