…..maintains they are specialized experts.
The Ogun State Branch of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) has sought stronger collaboration with the Ogun State Police Command to address the growing challenges posed by land-grabbing activities in the state.
The body made the request on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police,CP Lanre Ogunlowo at the Command's headquarters, Eleweran.
According to the statement from the office of the Spokesperson of the Command, CSP Omolola Odutola ,the NIS delegation highlighted the daily struggles faced by surveyors in their profession, especially incidents where surveyors are wrongfully arrested while lawfully carrying out their duties on disputed lands.
On key issues deliberated the surveyors appealed for police intervention in cases where their members are;Wrongfully arrested alongside land-grabbing factions despite being legally employed for surveying assignments. Misconstrued as land sellers, whereas their actual role is in land planning, demarcation, and delineation rather than granting titles or ownership. Exposed to threats, harassment, and violence from touts and criminal elements during site inspections.
The body also emphasized the urgent need for public enlightenment on the role of surveyors in land matters, advocating for wider professional engagement to reduce the reliance on untrained individuals who escalate land disputes into violent conflicts
In response, CP Lanre Ogunlowo acknowledged the widespread menace of land grabbing and assured the NIS delegation of the Command’s commitment to protecting lawful surveyors. However, he also advised surveyors to: Refrain from colluding with notorious land grabbers or falsifying survey plans to favour any disputing party, as such actions amount to forgery, a punishable offence under Nigerian criminal laws,Ensure strict professional ethics, as the police will only support registered, law-abiding surveyors.
He also added enjoined the members to recognize that land disputes are largely civil matters, and unless criminal elements, such as violence or use of dangerous weapons, are introduced, the rightful place to resolve disputes remains the court of law.
The Commissioner of Police firmly assured the surveyors that the police will continue to support genuine professionals while taking decisive action against illegal actors involved in land disputes.
CP Ogunlowo who reiterated the commitment of Ogun State Police Command to ensuring law, order, and justice in all land-related matters, urged the public to seek legal channels in resolving disputes.
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