Rivers State Government Announces Revocation of C of O in Igwuruta and Elelenwo: What Property Owners and Buyers Must Know Immediately.

The Rivers State Government has recently issued a public notice announcing its intention to revoke existing Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) over more than 500 hectares of land in parts of Igwuruta (Ikwerre LGA) and Elelenwo (Obio/Akpor LGA).

This announcement has created understandable tension among landowners, investors, and prospective buyers in Port Harcourt—especially as these areas are popular for residential and investment property.

As a committed real estate consultant in Rivers State, it is important to break down what this development means, why it is happening, and how investors should protect themselves moving forward.

What Exactly Happened?

According to the government notice published in the press:

• The Rivers State Government intends to withdraw existing C of O and rights of occupancy within designated sections of Igwuruta and Elelenwo.
• The revocation is being carried out under Section 28 of the Land Use Act (1978), which empowers the governor to reclaim land in the interest of the public.
• Property owners within the affected areas have been directed to submit their claims, supporting documents, and proof of ownership to the Ministry of Lands & Survey before November 28, 2025.
• Any land not claimed within the deadline may be considered abandoned and absorbed by the government for public use.

This action is part of a broader effort by the state to restructure land administration and reclaim lands needed for infrastructure development, urban planning, and security purposes.

Why Did the Government Make This Move?

Revocations like this occur for several reasons:

1. Overriding Public Interest

Under the Land Use Act, the government can revoke a C of O when the land is needed for:

• Roads
• Schools
• Hospitals
• Public utilities
• State or federal projects

2. Irregular or Conflicting Documentation

Many lands in Igwuruta and Elelenwo have:

• Duplicate surveys
• Incorrect layouts
• Disputed ownership
• Unapproved excisions
• Encroachments into government-acquired areas

When such irregularities pile up, the government may revoke all titles for auditing.

3. Realignment of Urban Development

Port Harcourt is expanding rapidly, and these areas fall within growth corridors that require government-led reshaping.

Who Is Affected?

People who may be impacted include:

• Individuals with existing C of O or Rights of Occupancy in the stated zones
• Landowners with only Deeds of Conveyance or family receipts in areas marked for revocation
• Buyers in unregistered or unverified estates around Igwuruta and Elelenwo
• Developers who acquired land without completing full title regularization

If you own property in these axes, prompt action is crucial.

What Should Current Landowners Do Now?

1. Verify Whether Your Plot Falls Within the Affected Zone

Not every property in Igwuruta or Elelenwo is affected.

Work with a professional surveyor or licensed real-estate consultant (BCN Realty can assist you) to confirm quickly.

2. Gather All Title Documents

You will need:

• C of O or R of O
• Survey plan
• Deed of assignment or conveyance
• Allocation letter
• Receipts

3. Submit Your Claims

Take your documents to the Rivers State Ministry of Lands & Survey before the stipulated deadline.

Submission shows you are a legitimate owner—failure to submit may result in forfeiture.

4. Avoid Panic Selling

Many investors panic and try to sell quickly at a loss.

Don’t make emotional decisions; verify your status first.

Advice for Buyers and Investors

If you’re planning to buy land in Igwuruta, Elelenwo, or surrounding locations:

1. Insist on Updated Title Verification

Do not rely on old documents.

Request:

• Confirmation from the Ministry
• Updated survey plans
• GIS checks
• Verification letters

2. Avoid Unregistered Family Land Deals

In uncertain times, this is where buyers lose the most money.

3. Work With Trusted Registrars & Consultants

The difference between losing millions and making a smart investment is transparent verification.

BCN Realty can guide you step-by-step.

4. Diversify Your Search

There are still safe, high-growth areas in Port Harcourt with:

• Clear titles
• Proper layouts
• Ongoing government approvals

If you need recommendations, I can provide verified options.

Will This Affect Property Value in Port Harcourt?

In the short term, uncertainty may slow transactions in those specific pockets.

But overall, revocations actually strengthen the market because they:

• Clean up illegal titles
• Correct land fraud
• Improve state-level urban planning
• Give long-term investors more confidence

This is not the first time such an action has happened and it usually leads to more structured development in the affected corridors.

Conclusion: Stay Alert, Stay Informed, and Move Smart

The Port Harcourt property market remains one of the most active and profitable in Nigeria.

But moments like this remind us that due diligence is everything.

If you own land or plan to buy in Igwuruta or Elelenwo, make sure you:

• Verify your land
• Secure your documents
• Submit claims early
• Work with a reputable real estate advisor

At BCN Realty, we are committed to helping investors protect their assets and make informed decisions in every market condition.

For enquiries or verification assistance, contact us anytime.