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Due Diligence: How to Handle Property Disputes in Lagos by Dennis Isong

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or someone who inherited a family property, the nightmare of a property dispute can feel like a dark cloud hanging over your head.

Published

10 months ago

February 9, 2025

OCHEFA

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Lagos, the bustling heart of Nigeria, is a city of dreams, opportunities, and, unfortunately, property disputes.

If you’ve ever found yourself caught in the web of a property dispute in Lagos, you know how emotionally draining and financially crippling it can be.

The city’s real estate market is booming, but with that growth comes a surge in conflicts over land, buildings, and ownership rights.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or someone who inherited a family property, the nightmare of a property dispute can feel like a dark cloud hanging over your head.

But here’s the thing: with the right knowledge and approach, you can navigate these murky waters and come out on top. Let’s talk about how.

The Emotional Toll of Property Disputes

Imagine this: You’ve saved for years, maybe even decades, to buy a piece of land or a house in Lagos.

You’ve dreamed of building a home for your family or starting a business on that property. Then, out of nowhere, someone claims the land is theirs. Or perhaps you inherited a property from your parents, only to discover that distant relatives or even strangers are contesting your ownership.

The frustration, anger, and helplessness can be overwhelming.

Property disputes are not just about money or assets; they’re about your dreams, your security, and your peace of mind. In Lagos, where land is gold and space is limited, these disputes are all too common.

But why?

The answer lies in the complex nature of land ownership, poor documentation, and sometimes, outright fraud.

Why Property Disputes Happen in Lagos

1. Multiple Sales of the Same Property: This is one of the most common issues. Unscrupulous sellers or agents sell the same piece of land to multiple buyers. By the time you realize what’s happened, you’re already in a legal battle.

2. Inheritance Conflicts: Family disputes over inherited property are rampant. Siblings, cousins, and even distant relatives may lay claim to a property, leading to prolonged court cases.

3. Boundary Disputes: Lagos is densely populated, and boundaries between properties are often unclear. Disputes arise when neighbors encroach on each other’s land, intentionally or unintentionally.

4. Fraudulent Documents: Fake land titles, forged signatures, and doctored documents are tools used by fraudsters to swindle unsuspecting buyers.

5. Government Acquisition: Sometimes, the government acquires land for public use, but the information doesn’t reach the rightful owners, leading to confusion and disputes.

How to Protect Yourself: Due Diligence is Key

The best way to avoid property disputes is to do your due diligence before buying or inheriting any property. Due diligence is not just a fancy term; it’s your shield against fraud and conflict.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Verify the Seller’s Identity: Ensure the person selling the property is the rightful owner. Ask for valid identification and cross-check with the land registry.

2. Check the Land Title:

In Lagos, the most secure form of land ownership is a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) issued by the government. If the property doesn’t have one, tread carefully. You can also check for a Governor’s Consent, which is required for the transfer of ownership.

3. Conduct a Search at the Land Registry:

This is crucial. A search will reveal the true owner of the property, any existing encumbrances, or pending litigation. Don’t skip this step, no matter how trustworthy the seller seems.

4. Inspect the Property Physically:

Visit the property and inspect it thoroughly. Look for signs of occupation, boundary marks, and any red flags. Talk to neighbors; they often have valuable information about the property’s history. .

5. Hire a Lawyer: A real estate lawyer can guide you through the process, review documents, and ensure everything is in order. Yes, it’s an extra cost, but it’s worth every penny to avoid future headaches.

What to Do If You’re Already in a Dispute If you’re already caught in a property dispute, don’t panic. While the process can be stressful, there are steps you can take to resolve the issue:

1. Gather Your Documents: Collect all relevant documents, including your deed of assignment, receipts, and any correspondence with the seller or other parties. These will serve as evidence in your favor.

2. Engage a Competent Lawyer: A good lawyer is your best ally in a property dispute. They can help you understand your rights, file the necessary legal actions, and represent you in court if needed.

3. Explore Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Court cases can drag on for years, draining your time and resources. Consider mediation or arbitration as a faster and less expensive way to resolve the dispute.

4. Stay Calm and Patient: Property disputes can be emotionally charged, but losing your temper won’t help.

Stay focused, follow your lawyer’s advice, and be patient. Justice may take time, but it’s worth fighting for.

Real-Life Stories: Lessons from the Trenches Let me share a story that hits close to home.

A friend of mine, let’s call her Ada, bought a piece of land in Lekki, one of Lagos’ most sought-after areas. She did everything right—or so she thought.

She verified the seller’s identity, checked the documents, and even paid for a survey plan. But a year later, while preparing to start construction, she was served with a court notice. Someone else was claiming ownership of the same land.

Ada was devastated. She had invested her life savings into that property. After months of legal battles, it turned out that the original seller had sold the land to multiple buyers. Ada eventually won the case, but it cost her time, money, and sleepless nights. Her story is a stark reminder of why due diligence is non-negotiable.

The Human Side of Property Disputes

Behind every property dispute is a human story—a family torn apart, a dream deferred, or a life savings lost. It’s easy to get caught up in the legalities and forget the emotional toll these conflicts take.

I’ve seen families stop speaking to each other over inherited property. I’ve met people who lost everything because they trusted the wrong person. And I’ve also seen the relief and joy of those who fought for their rights and won.

If you’re going through a property dispute, know that you’re not alone. Many have walked this path before you, and many will come after. What matters is how you handle it. Will you let it break you, or will you rise above it?

Lagos is a city of endless possibilities, but it’s also a city where you need to be vigilant. Property disputes can happen to anyone, but with due diligence, you can minimize the risks.

If you’re buying property, take your time, do your research, and seek professional help. If you’re already in a dispute, don’t lose hope.

Fight for what’s rightfully yours, but do it wisely. Remember, your property is more than just an asset; it’s a part of your story, your legacy, and your future.

Protect it with everything you’ve got. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remind yourself why you started this journey in the first place. Your dreams are worth fighting for.

So, the next time you hear about a property dispute in Lagos, don’t just see it as a news headline.

See it as a cautionary tale, a call to action, and a reminder that in this city, due diligence isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity.

Related Topics:Featured Handling property dispute Property Disputes

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CPPE Tasks Govt to Fix Cost of Living Crisis Amid GDP Growth

Reacting on Nigeria’s third quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 3.98 percent , CPPE said that it’s laudable, but called for policy interventions to fix the cost of living crisis.

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The Center for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE) tasks the government to ensure that GDP Growth and macroeconomic stability translate into real improvements in citizens’ welfare.

Reacting on Nigeria’s third quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 3.98 percent , CPPE said that it’s laudable, but called for policy interventions to fix the cost of living crisis.

Dr Muda Yusuf, CEO of the CPPE, notes that despite the improvment in the GDP, the cost-of-living crisis remains a concern .

He said: ” While disinflation is underway and prices of some food items and manufactured products are easing, the social outcomes of economic reforms continue to weigh on households.

” It is therefore imperative for policymaking to prioritise targeted interventions to address the uneasiness around the cost of living and ensure that GDP Growth and macroeconomic stability translate into real improvements in citizens’ welfare—particularly for vulnerable groups.”

To consolidate the gains recorded in Q3 and unlock stronger, more inclusive growth, Dr Yusuf, said that the following policy interventions are critical:

Reduce Structural Bottlenecks

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Mitigate the Cost-of-Living Crisis

Implement targeted social interventions and remove structural impediments that elevate consumer prices.

All tiers of government [local, state and federal] must sustain targeted interventions in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, transportation and energy to fix the cost of living crisis.

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Dangote Targets Nigeria Festive Season Monthly Supply of 1.5 billion litres of PMS

This represents 50 million litres per day. We are formally notifying the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) of this commitment.

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Dangote Petroleum Refinery says that it has concluded arrangements to supply over 50 million litres of petrol per day into the Nigerian market this festive season (December to January).

The company said that the decision was taken to ensure that there is no shortage of the product during the festive season.

This translates to 1.5 billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) for the month of December.

The same amount of product will also be supplied in January 2026, it was added.

President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, announced the plans.

Dangote said: “In line with our commitment to national well-being, and consistent with our track record of ensuring a holiday season free of fuel scarcity, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will supply 1.5 billion litres of PMS to the Nigerian market this month.

This represents 50 million litres per day. We are formally notifying the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) of this commitment.

We will supply another 1.5 billion litres in January and increase to 1.75 billion litres in February, which translates to over 60 million litres per day.”

Speaking during a visit by the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) to the refinery and the Dangote Fertiliser complex, he stated that the facility currently has adequate stock and is producing between 40 and 45 million litres of PMS daily.

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Dangote Partners Honeywell International to Boost Refinery Capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day

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1 week ago

November 25, 2025

Charles Flames

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Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest single-train petroleum refinery, has signed a landmark contract with U.S. industrial giant Honeywell International to execute a significant capacity upgrade that will boost the facility’s crude processing capability from the current 650,000 barrels per day to an ambitious 1.4 million barrels per day.

The multi-billion-dollar project, described by sources close to the deal as one of the largest refinery expansion initiatives globally in recent years, will involve the installation of advanced process units, automation systems, and energy-efficiency technologies supplied and integrated by Honeywell UOP and Honeywell Process Solutions.

Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of Dangote Industries Limited, confirmed the partnership, stating: “This strategic collaboration with Honeywell will position the Dangote Refinery as one of the top five largest refineries in the world by capacity.

The upgrade will not only enhance our ability to meet Nigeria’s complete refined products demand but also establish the refinery as a major export hub for gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and petrochemicals across Africa and beyond.

”The expansion is expected to be implemented in phases, with key units including additional crude distillation, hydrocracking, and catalytic reforming modules.

Honeywell’s proprietary technologies are anticipated to improve yield of high-value products while reducing energy consumption and emissions.Upon completion, the 1.4 million bpd Dangote Refinery will surpass the current global top-tier facilities such as Reliance Industries’ Jamnagar Refinery (1.24 million bpd) and Paraguay’s planned 1.2 million bpd project, cementing its status as the world’s largest single-train refinery.

The project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs during the construction and commissioning phases and further reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products.

A spokesperson for Honeywell confirmed the award, saying the company was “honored to partner with Dangote on this transformative project that will reshape the African downstream landscape.

”Detailed timelines and the exact value of the contract were not disclosed, but industry analysts estimate the expansion could exceed $5–7 billion in total investment.

The statement said: Dangote Group is pleased to announce that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Honeywell International Inc to support the next phase of expansion of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

This collaboration will provide advanced technology and services that will enable the refinery to increase its processing capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day by 2028, marking a major milestone in our long-term vision to build the world’s largest petroleum refining complex.

Through this agreement, Honeywell will supply specialised catalysts, equipment, and process technologies that will allow the refinery to process a broader slate of crude grades efficiently and to further enhance product quality and operational reliability.

Honeywell, a global Fortune 100 industrial and technology company, offers a wide portfolio of solutions across aviation, automotive, industrial automation, and advanced materials.

Honeywell’s division UOP has been a technology partner to Dangote since 2017, providing proprietary refining systems, catalyst regeneration equipment, high performance column trays, and heat exchanger technologies that support our best-in-class operations.

Dangote Group is also advancing its petrochemical footprint. As part of the wider collaboration, we are scaling our polypropylene capacity to 2.4 million metric tons annually using Honeywell’s Oleflex technology.

Polypropylene is a key industrial material widely used across packaging, manufacturing, and automotive applications.In addition to refining expansion, Dangote Group is progressing with the next phase of its fertiliser growth plan in Nigeria. We will increase our urea production capacity from 3 million metric tons to 9 million metric tons annually.

The existing plant consists of two trains of 1.5 million metric tons each. The expansion will add four additional trains to meet growing demand for high-quality fertiliser across Africa and global markets.

Dangote Group remains fully committed to delivering world-class industrial capacity, strengthening Nigeria’s energy security, and driving sustainable economic growth through long-term investment, innovation, and strategic global partnerships.