Okpebholo Introduces New Law To Safeguard Government Assets

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved two important new laws aimed at protecting government property and improving the justice system. The laws are the Edo State Public Property Protection Law, 2025, and the Customary Court of Appeal (Re-establishment) Law, 2025.

According to a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, the governor said these laws show his commitment to transparency, accountability, and stopping the misuse or illegal takeover of public assets.

The Public Property Protection Law creates a committee that will protect, recover, and manage all government-owned properties in Edo State. The committee will work with security agencies to stop illegal occupation, vandalism, and encroachment on government land and buildings.

The law gives the committee power to seal or reclaim property and take offenders to court through the Ministry of Justice. Punishments include up to five years in prison for illegal sale or transfer of government property, and up to ten years in prison for forcefully taking over state property.

Governor Okpebholo stressed that he has no tolerance for corruption. He said, “Public assets belong to the people of Edo State, not individuals. This law ensures that no one, regardless of status, can convert public property for personal gain.”

He also warned that professionals who help in illegal land dealings involving government property will be prosecuted and may face punishment from their professional bodies. Filing false reports or claims over government land will also bring serious consequences.

Since taking office, the governor has been focused on recovering state assets and earlier appointed Eugene Okoloise to lead the task force responsible for reclaiming government properties. The team has already taken back several lands and buildings.

In addition, the governor signed the law to re-establish the Customary Court of Appeal as a higher court, in line with the Constitution. The court will handle appeals and cases related to customary law, as well as matters involving chieftaincy and traditional titles.

Under the law, the President of the Court will be recommended by the National Judicial Council, appointed by the governor, and confirmed by the state House of Assembly. Six judges with at least 10 years of experience in customary law will also serve.

To support fairness and independence, the salaries of the court’s judges will be paid directly from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund.

Okpebholo said the return of the court is “a reaffirmation of Edo’s commitment to accessible justice, respect for traditional values, and fidelity to the Constitution.”

The Attorney-General praised the governor, saying the laws begin “a new era in asset governance and judicial integrity,” and will help protect Edo State’s values and public resources.

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