Edo Govt Enforces Land Use Charge Law, Seals Premises of Defaulters
By Simeon OSAJIE
In line with the provisions of Section 30 of the Edo State Land Use Charge (LUC) Law of 2023 (as amended), the State Government has sealed business and residential premises of defaulters who refused to pay their Land-based taxes, otherwise known as Land Use Charge ( LUC).
A statement by the Director of Media, Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS), Dr. Tunde Eigbiremolen explained that the action follows the expiration of the enforcement notice earlier issued to those concerned, on July 24, 2025 wherein they were duly informed of the implication of not complying with the extant Law.
Consequently, several business and residential premises in Benin metropolis were on Wednesday, sealed by the Government Enforcement team, having breached the LUC law which requires owners/occupiers of such premises to settle their outstanding LUC bills to the State Government.
Recall that in July 2025 enforcement notice was served to inform defaulters and debtors of their outstanding Land Use Charge associated with properties under their ownership/ occupation, while enlightenment programme was carried out in the media to inform them on the implication of Non- compliance.
The State Government, through the Edo State Geographic Information Service, (EDOGIS) thereafter proceeded to flag off its offices in Edo North and Central Senatorial Districts where it engaged stakeholders, among others, on the imperative of paying the land-based taxes.
The idea was to create awareness on the services of the Agency and also sensitize the public on the importance of LUC payment to enable Governor Monday Okpebholo garner the much needed resources to fast-track ongoing massive infrastructural development across the State.
The Land Use Charge (LUC), is a consolidated Land-based tax which includes property tax, Ground rent and Tenement rate which the enabling law empowers EDOGIS to collect on behalf of government.
The enforcement action which continues, is in a bid to recover all outstanding indebtedness to Government regarding Land-based taxes.
