By Nworisa Michael
The Enugu State Government has announced far-reaching reforms in land administration, abolishing the controversial Ogbonecheagu levy and reducing land-related charges by more than 60 per cent in a move aimed at ending multiple taxation and restoring public trust.
Under the new policy, all land and property charges including ground rent and land use fees have been harmonised into a single Unified Land Use Charge payable once annually through the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS). The policy applies to properties both within and outside housing estates across the state.
The reforms were unveiled at a stakeholders’ town hall meeting on land sector development held at the International Conference Centre, Enugu.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the administration is committed to building a transparent, predictable, and investor-friendly land governance system anchored on legality and digital innovation.
He described land as a key driver of housing, infrastructure, agriculture, and economic growth, noting that the reforms are designed to eliminate uncertainty, curb illegal revenue practices, and make property ownership more secure.
A major highlight of the policy is the outright ban on Ogbonecheagu charges, which the government described as illegal following widespread complaints from residents. Onyia disclosed that a task force has been set up to enforce compliance and warned that extortion and unauthorised collections would no longer be tolerated. Residents who paid such levies were urged to submit evidence to the state’s whistleblowing platform for prompt action.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Barr. Chimaobi Okorie, said the administration has issued executive orders and enacted new laws, including the Enugu State Geographic Information System (ENGIS) Law, to fully digitise land records and simplify transactions.
He added that applications for Certificates of Occupancy can now be processed online, while a new Property Protection Law guarantees stronger security for legitimate landowners and investors.
Officials said the reforms are expected to reduce cost burdens on residents, improve ease of doing business, and strengthen confidence in Enugu’s land administration system.