Business

Responses That Should Turn You Off While Doing Due Diligence in Nigeria’s Real Estate By Dennis Isong

Don’t Worry, the Land is Clean” Whenever a seller or agent says, “Don’t worry, trust me,” without providing proof, you should immediately worry. In Nigeria’s real estate market, trust is earned, not assumed.

Published

1 year ago

January 27, 2025

OCHEFA

341 Views

Let me share a story. A painful one. In November 2023, I met Chika, a young entrepreneur full of ambition.

She had saved for three years to buy her first plot of land in Lagos.

She dreamed of building her own bakery there someday—a dream she’d nurtured since childhood. Chika found a seller through a friend’s recommendation.

The location seemed perfect, and the price was “a steal.” When she began asking basic questions during due diligence, the seller’s responses were… strange.

When she asked about the land’s title, the seller waved her off. “Ah, no need to stress yourself. Trust me, this land is clean!” he said, flashing a reassuring smile.

When she pressed further, he added, “See, other buyers are waiting. If you waste time, someone else will grab it!” Against her better judgment, Chika paid.

The fear of missing out overpowered her. Months later, she discovered that the land was already sold to two other buyers.

Her N3 million vanished. Her bakery dream was shattered. She sat in my office, teary-eyed, asking, “Dennis, why didn’t I see the red flags?

How could I have been so blind?” Her story is a painful reminder that some responses during due diligence are major red flags.

If you hear any of the following phrases or behaviors, it’s time to step back and protect yourself.

1. “Don’t Worry, the Land is Clean” Whenever a seller or agent says, “Don’t worry, trust me,” without providing proof, you should immediately worry. In Nigeria’s real estate market, trust is earned, not assumed.

A land being “clean” means it is free of disputes, government acquisition, or other issues. If the seller refuses to provide documents like the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), Deed of Assignment, or Survey Plan, it’s a glaring warning sign. What they’re really saying is, “I have something to hide, and I don’t want you to find out.”

2. “You Don’t Need a Lawyer” Ah, this one. Many shady sellers will try to convince you that involving a lawyer is unnecessary. They’ll say things like:

● “I’ve done this for years; lawyers just want to collect your money.”

● “You’ll waste time if you involve a lawyer.” This is manipulation, plain and simple. A lawyer ensures that all documents are valid and protects you from legal pitfalls. If someone discourages you from hiring a lawyer, it’s a sign they’re trying to cut corners—and possibly scam you.

3. “The Price Will Increase Tomorrow” Pressure tactics are a classic move in real estate fraud. When a seller tells you, “Other buyers are waiting,” or “If you don’t pay today, the price will go up tomorrow,” it’s often a ploy to rush you into making a hasty decision.

Think about it: Why would a genuine seller rush you? Good land doesn’t sell itself in one day, especially when proper documentation is involved. If they’re pushing you to act fast, it’s likely because they don’t want you to uncover the truth.

4. “I’ll Handle All the Documents for You” While it may sound convenient, a seller offering to handle all documentation should raise your suspicions. Why don’t they want you to see the process?

Here’s the truth: handling documentation gives you control and ensures transparency. If you blindly trust a seller to “take care of it all,” you might end up with fake or incomplete papers.

5. “It’s Family Land; We Don’t Have Titles Yet” In Nigeria, many disputes arise from “family land.” Sellers often claim they inherited the land and don’t have titles yet but promise to “regularize” the documents after you pay.

This is risky. Without proper titles, you could be buying into a web of family disputes. If they can’t produce a clear document, walk away.

6. “You Don’t Need to Inspect the Land” Imagine paying for land you’ve never seen. Unbelievable, right? Yet, it happens more often than you think. Some sellers will discourage you from inspecting the property by saying:

● “The land is far; I’ll show you pictures.”

● “The area is still developing, but it’s a good investment.” Never buy land without seeing it yourself—or better still, with a professional surveyor. Pictures can be deceiving, and some sellers will show you land that doesn’t even exist. 7. “Don’t Involve the Community” In many parts of Nigeria, land transactions involve local communities or traditional rulers. Some sellers, however, will warn you not to speak to the community, saying:

● “They’ll confuse you.”

● “The land doesn’t concern them.” This is a major red flag. Communities often have valuable information about the land, including its history, disputes, or encumbrances. If a seller is trying to cut them out of the process, something is likely wrong.

8. “The Survey Plan is With Someone Else” The survey plan is a crucial document that shows the exact location and size of the land. If a seller says it’s “with someone else” or promises to provide it after payment, be careful.

How can you verify what you’re buying without a survey plan? This excuse often hides fraudulent intentions.

9. “Don’t Worry About a Search; It’s Stressful” Conducting a search at the land registry is one of the most critical steps in due diligence. It confirms whether the land has a valid title and is free from disputes.

If a seller tells you not to bother, they’re trying to hide something. The search process might take time, but it’s worth every second.

10. “Just Trust Me” Finally, the ultimate red flag is when a seller relies solely on trust without offering proof. Real estate is a business transaction, not a friendship. Trust is good, but documents are better. How to Protect Yourself

• Ask Questions: Don’t feel intimidated. Ask for every document—C of O, Deed of Assignment, Survey Plan, and any other relevant papers.

• Hire a Professional: Get a lawyer, surveyor, or real estate expert to guide you.

• Do a Search: Visit the land registry to verify the property’s status.

• Visit the Land: Inspect the property yourself to confirm its existence and condition.

• Involve the Community: Speak to locals to understand the land’s history and avoid disputes.

Final Thoughts Chika’s story—and countless others like it—reminds us of one thing: due diligence is not negotiable.

If a seller’s responses sound suspicious or dismissive, take a step back. It’s better to miss out on a deal than to lose your hard-earned money.

In Nigeria’s real estate market, red flags are everywhere. Your job is to spot them, avoid them, and protect your investment. Don’t let pressure or promises cloud your judgment.

Always remember: it’s better to walk away than to walk into trouble. Your investment deserves protection. Don’t rush. Don’t assume. Verify everything.

Written by Dennis Isong, your trusted partner in Nigeria’s real estate market. Let’s guide you to safe and profitable property investments.

Business

Global Links and Services Ltd adds Namibia to its Tourism Packages

Tony Onwuchekwa, the company’s Group Director of Communications, who disclosed this, and advocates for policy changes to ease intra-African travel.

Published

7 hours ago

February 28, 2026

OCHEFA

17 Views

• Tony Onwuchekwa, Group Director of Communications

Global Links and Services Ltd (operating as Global Links Travel & Tours), a fully licensed IATA Travel Agency based in Nigeria, says that it’s poised to integrate Namibia into its tours and pilgrimage offerings.

Tony Onwuchekwa, the company’s Group Director of Communications, who disclosed this, and advocates for policy changes to ease intra-African travel.

Onwuchekwa said that the motivation to add Namibia to its travel destinations package was ignited by it’s participation in the just ended Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) and South African Airways (SAA) B2B Stakeholders Meeting in Windhoek.

He emphasised that with over 20 years of experience in crafting seamless travel experiences across Nigeria and beyond, Global Links and Services Ltd is poised to advance intra-Africa tourism, experiential travel, and investment opportunities in Namibia, aligning with its mission to transform travel dreams into reality through expertly curated itineraries, flights, tours, hotels, transfers, study abroad services, and faith-based pilgrimages.

According to him, the company has gained firsthand insights to develop authentic, budget-friendly packages that highlight Namibia’s cultural heritage, wildlife, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) potential.

“Global Links is committed to bridging Africa’s tourism gaps through strategic collaborations and immersive experiences,” said Tony Onwuchekwa.

“This event aligns perfectly with our vision of linking clients to the world’s wonders, and going forward, we’ll leverage our expertise in promoting African destinations to position Namibia as a must-visit hub for bleisure and adventure travellers,” he said.

Business

Satchets Alcohol Manufacturers Cry Out to Tinubu to Overide “NAFDAC’s Ban

The Senate, in its own wisdom, did not hear from other parties before the present situation we find ourselves in. This is, therefore, not a regulation; this is calculated economic suffocation.

Published

1 day ago

February 27, 2026

OCHEFA

43 Views

• Collage : NAFDAC DG, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye; FOBTOB President, Jimoh Oyibo.

THE National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) ban on local production and distribution of sachets alcohol and 10cl PET bottles have started telling on the economy, according to the Food and Beverage Producers union- FOBTOB., prompting their calls for intervention by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu , his cabinet and other well meaning Nigerians, to :

“Let the factories be reopened.Let the warehouses be unsealed.Let the depots be reopened.Let regulation replace repression.Let dialogue replace destruction.Let policy replace punishment.”

Jimoh Oyibo, President of FOBTOB, at a press conference in Lagos, paints the grim pictures of the ban , barley in its two months :

” Across the country, indigenous manufacturing companies, especially factories are being shut down. Depots are being closed. Warehouses are being locked including those that contain multiple other lawful products not connected to the targeted items.

“The consequences are already visible because workers are losing their jobs daily. Families have started to loose their income, businesses collapsing, supply chains breaking, tax revenues to the Federal Government reducing,” he said.

He emphasised that above all, local investment confidence is being destroyed, and that an economy cannot survive when industries are shut down instead of regulated.

Read Also: Are The Ministers of industry Leaving Manufacturers To Face Challenges?

The speech reads:

” Gentlemen and Ladies of the press and fellow Nigerians, we address you today February 26, 2026 with deep pain, growing fear, and a heavy sense of injustice over the ongoing actions of under the leadership of Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General.

This approach is creating widespread confusion, fear, and economic paralysis and we are compelled to ask Professor Mojisola Adeyeye the following questions.

What is her real motive behind this method of enforcement?

Why are entire facilities being shut down instead of applying controlled, targeted regulation?

Why are lawful businesses, workers, transporters, retailers, and suppliers being collectively punished?

The fact is undeniable that all stakeholders met including the House committe on alcohol of the House of Representatives, Honorable Minister of Health, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye,

The Nigerian Police, Customs, Immigration, Federal Road safety corps, manufacturers, Road transport Unions and many other representatives where this issue of alcohol intake by underaged was discussed and the general resolution was access control, massive enlightenment and educational sensitisation drive amongst other resolutions and not total ban as been carried out by Professor Mojisola Adeyeye.

While a policy document which was to serve as a National guide was being awaited, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye rushed behind everyone to approach the Senate for total ban.

The Senate, in its own wisdom, did not hear from other parties before the present situation we find ourselves in. This is, therefore, not a regulation; this is calculated economic suffocation.

children whom she claimed to be protecting are being forced out of school and embracing uncontrolled vices including forced labor or prostitution, with signs of increase in poverty and without doubt, crime risks will rise and this can be a security problem to Nigeria.

We reject the idea that total bans and mass shutdowns are solutions.

Access control is better than total prohibition.

Regulation is better than destruction.

Enlightenment is better than force.

Structured policy is better than blanket punishment.Cutting off a head is not the cure for a headache.

Dialogue is always stronger than destruction.Reform is better than repression.

Control is better than collapse.Factories are not just buildings, they are ecosystems that revolve round – Transporters who are into haulage- Raw material suppliers- Distributors- Retailers- Market women- Artisans- Warehouse operators- Support services- Logistics workers All of them are now suffering because of this policy direction.

We are therefore making this national appeal:

To the Federal Government of Nigeria

To the conscience of leadership

To the defenders of democracy

To the guardians of the economy

Please intervene and prevail on Professor Mojisola Adeyeye for a rethink

Please speak to the conscience of leadership. Stop Professor Mojisola Adeyeye before she destroy Nigeria and Nigerians.

We have no other country to call ours. 2027 elections are fast approaching and this is not the time to loose jobs.We are not criminals.

We are not kidnappers.We are not robbers.We are not extremists.We are not enemies of the state.We are workers.

We are producers.We are parents.We are taxpayers.We are citizens.

We are Nigerians.The only work we know is factory work.

The only livelihood we have is production.The only dignity we have is honest labor.We therefore appeal strongly and respectfully: .

Total bans are not the way forward.Controlled access is the way forward.Education is the way forward.Regulation is the way forward.

Partnership is the way forward.We bring this message before the press, please help circulate our pleas.

We bring it before the nation, this is a security crisis in the making.We bring it before the world, Nigeria is too volatile for another crisis.

This is our appeal.

This is our cry.This is our plea.

This is our stand.Let our industries and factories live.

Let our people work and contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy.

Let our economy breathe, not to suffocate.”

Business

Alcohol Manufacturers Seek Tinubu’s Intervention as Tension Persists with NAFDAC

“We are not criminals. We are workers. We are producers. We are taxpayers. We are Nigerians.”

Published

2 days ago

February 27, 2026

OCHEFA

53 Views

SACHETS alcohol manufacturers have again confronted the NAFDAC Lagos Office demanding that the agency reopen their sealed warehouses, indigenous factories and depots across the country.

Chanting “No Work for Us, No Work for You”, and “We are not criminals. We are workers. We are producers. We are taxpayers. We are Nigerians ,” the workers accused the agency, under the leadership of Mojisola Adeyeye, of shutting down entire manufacturing facilities instead of applying what the union termed “controlled and targeted regulation.”

They called for urgent intervention from Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Senate, the House of Representatives, governors, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society groups.

During the protest on Wednesday, Comrade Anthony Oyaga, Secretary of the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association (FOBTOB), described the situation as one marked by “deep pain, growing fear, and a heavy sense of injustice.

According to the FOBTOB, multiple facilities producing sachet products and 10cl PET bottled beverages have been sealed nationwide, including warehouses containing other lawful products unrelated to the targeted items.

“This is not regulation; this is calculated economic suffocation,” said the union, adding that factories are not just buildings; they are ecosystems.”

The statement emphasised, listing transporters, raw material suppliers, distributors, retailers, market women, warehouse operators, artisans, and logistics workers as part of the affected chain.