Property and Land Law
What it is: A property transaction is the legal transfer or creation of an interest in land or buildings, such as a sale, lease, assignment or mortgage. In Nigeria these dealings are governed by the Land Use Act and property law, and typically require due diligence, a properly drafted instrument, payment of applicable fees and stamp duty, the Governor's consent, and registration at the Land Registry to perfect title. A valid Certificate of Occupancy or registered deed evidences the interest acquired. When it applies: This service applies when you are purchasing or selling land or a building, taking or granting a lease, using property as security, or transferring family or company property. It is also relevant where you need to confirm that a seller genuinely owns the land. How a lawyer helps: A property lawyer conducts a title search at the Land Registry, verifies ownership and encumbrances, drafts and reviews the deed of assignment, lease or mortgage, and handles Governor's consent, stamping and registration to protect your title. Counsel guards against fraud and double allocation. First steps: Obtain the seller's title documents and survey plan, avoid paying before due diligence, and instruct a lawyer to investigate title before committing any funds.
