Prof. Kofi Anokye, CEO of KOANS Building Solutions Limited, has cautioned the public against buying land from individuals claiming to be traditional authorities. This warning specifically targets areas like Teacher Mante and Kyekyewere in the Eastern Region. The company asserts that it has duly registered several land parcels in these communities for over 20 years.
KOANS Building Solutions will not permit unauthorized persons to develop these registered lands. The company also strongly rejected media allegations accusing it of illegally acquiring land in the enclave. Prof. Anokye described these claims as false and urged the public to disregard them completely. This situation underscores ongoing challenges in Ghana's land administration system.
Ghana's land sector has historically faced issues with multiple sales and fraudulent claims, impacting economic stability. The Lands Commission, established to manage land registration, often grapples with disputes arising from unclear ownership. Such warnings from major developers like KOANS highlight the persistent need for improved land records and enforcement. Land disputes can deter investment and create significant financial losses for citizens.
Prof. Anokye stated that company investigations found some claimants were not legitimate traditional authorities. He alleged these individuals were involved in land-guard activities, aiming to interfere with legitimate transactions. Such actions expose unsuspecting buyers to potential fraud and financial ruin. The CEO emphasized the need for buyers to protect their investments.
Prospective land buyers must exercise extreme caution and conduct thorough due diligence before committing funds. Prof. Anokye advised obtaining an independent cadastral site plan for any property. Buyers should then conduct an official search at the Lands Commission to confirm ownership status. This step is crucial for verifying the seller's legitimacy.
Where necessary, both topographical and cadastral searches should be conducted. Buyers must ensure the verified owner's name matches official records. If ownership cannot be established, buyers should proceed with extreme caution. Dealing directly with the confirmed owner is paramount, avoiding third-party representations without verified ownership.
Promptly completing documentation and registration after purchase is also vital. This includes obtaining a duly signed indenture and site plan. Buyers must then proceed with registration and transfer at the Lands Commission without delay. This process secures legal ownership and prevents future disputes.
KOANS Building Solutions stressed that the public should not rely solely on publications or claims by individuals or groups. Independent verification is essential for all land transactions. The company reiterated its commitment to protecting client interests and ensuring legal compliance. Seeking professional legal advice before any land transaction is also strongly encouraged. This comprehensive approach helps mitigate risks in Ghana's complex land market.