From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Edo State Government, yesterday, announced that it has commenced a profiling exercise for property owners in the New City Development Area, formerly known as Coral City, as part of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s renewed efforts to resolve lingering community land disputes.
A statement signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Committee on Land Dispute Resolution, Dr. Abdulwasiu Oyakhire, called on all property owners in Lot-A and Lot-B of the project area to come forward with their ownership documents for verification, adding that the exercise is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, and run through Friday, June 13, 2025.
The statement explained that the profiling will be conducted on-site by relevant state agencies and will take place simultaneously in both Lot-A and Lot-B, pointing out that other sections of the New City Development are expected to undergo similar processes in subsequent phases.
It added that “Affected property owners are expected to present their survey plans. In cases where surveys are unavailable, accurate property coordinates will be accepted, with government-assigned surveyors available on the ground to assist”.
The statement further explained that the initiative followed a recent peace-building meeting convened by Governor Okpebholo with leaders from the Oke-Oroma, Obagie, and Amagba communities at the Government House in Benin City.
“During the meeting, the governor emphasized the need for all stakeholders to submit their documents to the verification committee for profiling, authentication, and eventual regularization for the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O).
“Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace in the area, stressing that harmonious coexistence among residents is vital for the development of the New City,” the statement said and urged full cooperation from all affected parties to ensure a smooth and successful profiling process.