Individuals and investors willing to acquire land in Ogun state have been advised to always go through the proper channel and ensure that they obtain valid documents before paying for land to avoid unnecessary dispute.

The Commissioner for Commerce and industry, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru gave the warning while mediating between some industrialists and land sellers (omo oniles) from Ibafo in Obafemi Owode Local Government and Agbara in Ado Odo /Ota Local Government Areas of the State in his office.

The Commissioner noted that acquiring land through a third party is risky as one can easily be swindled adding that all land purchases should be properly verified through appropriate authorities.

Ashiru urged investors and their host communities to co-exist peacefully and avoid any action or comment that can lead to breach of peace, warning that government would not fold its arms and allow investors or citizens to be threatened in any way.

“This is a transparent government. We want to be sure that things are done properly, so if you have issues with investors in your area, don’t resort to violence; just inform the government for the matter to be resolved amicably” he said.

Speaking at the meeting, the special adviser on Ogun State property and Investment Corporation (OPIC), Mr. Babajide Ogunsolu observed that it was not right for host communities to disrupt the activities of Industries that government has allocated land as no investor would be willing to work in an hostile environment.

On their part, the representatives of the Industries namely Win foods Ltd, Ibafo and Rider glass, Agbara commended the state government for its intervention pointing out that such a step would go a long way in boosting investors’ confidence in government.

The land sellers from the Igagbasa family, Ibafo and Isuba Ale Balogun family Igbesa also commended government for its intervention, explaining that they are law abiding citizens and would do nothing so as not to breach the peace.