Lands bought from chiefs should be legally registered

Mr Saaka Ahmed Mustapha, the Head of Administration at the Regional Lands Commission in Tamale, has recommended that individuals register lands purchased from Chiefs with the Lands Commission to prevent cases of double sales. He stressed that acquiring land from Chiefs doesn't automatically confer legal ownership; it's only achieved through registration with the Lands Commission. Mr Mustapha clarified that while Chiefs are custodians of the land, the responsibility of registering it lies with the Lands Commission. He cautioned against assuming that purchasing land from a Chief, even with accompanying documentation, grants legal ownership. Mr Mustapha emphasized that failing to register land bought from a Chief could result in losing a legal battle if the same land is sold to another person who then registers it with the Lands Commission. He emphasized that if the initial buyer registers the land, the second buyer cannot subsequently register it, securing the land for the first buyer. Mr Mustapha, the Head of Administration at the Wa Regional Lands Commission, also stressed the importance of conducting a land search with the Lands Commission before making a purchase. This search would reveal if the land has already been sold and registered, or if it's available for purchase. He noted that only the Lands Commission can provide accurate details and appropriate advice. Mr Mustapha pointed out that land disputes are on the rise due to a lack of understanding about land acquisition and registration procedures. He advised the public not to overlook these processes, as neglecting them could result in losing investments to unscrupulous individuals engaged in fraudulent land sales.