Okpebholo Signs Law Prescribing 10-Year Jail Term for Forceful Possession of Edo Govt Property
The governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has signed into law a bill prescribing a 10-year jail term for anyone who violently or forcefully gains entry into state-owned property.
Okpebholo also assented to another provision stipulating a five-year imprisonment for individuals involved in the unauthorized sale or transfer of government property without the governor’s consent.
A statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Tuesday, said the new legislation underscores the administration’s zero tolerance for corruption, impunity, and the misuse of public assets.
“The Edo State Public Property Protection Law, 2025, establishes the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee, a statutory body mandated to oversee, safeguard, and recover all public properties belonging to the state,” the statement read.
“The law empowers the committee to prevent unauthorized occupation, vandalism, encroachment, alienation, or destruction of public assets.”
He said the committee is empowered to identify, inspect, seal, and recover encroached public properties; investigate disputes; and collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure strict compliance.
It may also initiate legal actions through the Ministry of Justice against any individual or organization found in violation of the law.
