Abia Land Reform Bill Passes Second Reading in State Assembly

The Land Instrument Registration (Amendment No. 1) Bill, 2025, sponsored by Hon. Anthony Chinasa of the Umuahia Central State Constituency, passed its Second Reading on the floor of the Abia State House of Assembly on Tuesday.

The bill, which now moves to the Committee of the Whole for further consideration, aims to tighten the legal framework surrounding land documentation and registration in the state. It introduces two key safeguards to protect landowners and investors from fraudulent practices.

According to Hon. Chinasa, the legislation is a response to a disturbing rise in fake land documents and the activities of unqualified individuals posing as legal experts. “Far too many of our people have suffered losses of land, homes, and peace because they unknowingly relied on fake documents,” he said during the session.

The bill mandates that all land instruments intended for registration must be certified by the Chairman of a Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) branch within Abia State, ensuring that only qualified legal practitioners are involved in land transactions. Additionally, it requires grantors to swear an affidavit before a High Court, affirming the accuracy and truthfulness of the document’s contents.

“These measures are designed to restore confidence in our land registration system, reduce fraudulent activities, and make Abia more attractive to investors,” Chinasa added, thanking his colleagues for their support and robust debate on the bill.

The legislative move marks a promising step in addressing land ownership disputes and strengthening property rights in the state.