The Benue State Ministry of Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals has suspended all consultants and contractors involved in land planning and survey across the state, citing widespread irregularities and illegal activities.

The decision was announced by the Commissioner, Rev. Frederick Ikyaan, during a meeting with leaders of the Ugondo Community at the residence of District Head, Tyoor Terseer Ihwakar, in Makurdi Local Government Area.

Dr. Ikyaan said the suspension followed a critical review of complaints and ongoing court cases involving forged signatures on allocation papers, illegal beacons, inflated settlement fees, unauthorized land reviews, and attempts to prevent rightful owners from accessing government-allocated land.

He urged members of the public to verify the authenticity of allocation documents with the ministry before acquiring land, warning that illegal practices would no longer be tolerated.

The Commissioner’s visit also led to an agreement with the community to harmonize settlement fees, ensuring uniformity across all local communities.

Community leaders, including Zaki Joseph Akaana and District Head Zaki Terseer Ihwakar, praised the ministry for addressing the anomalies and expressed confidence in its commitment to restoring order in land administration.

Dr. Ikyaan was accompanied by top ministry officials, including Surveyor General Surv. Emmanuel Nôngo, Directors of Administration, Lands and Town Planning, Deeds Registrar Terfa Yainjô, Assistant Surveyor General Surv. Joshua Ashir, Principal Administrative Officer Miss Mwuese Akange, and Information Officer Mrs. Nguungwan Leke.