The Commissioner of Oldest Congo Town, Edward Hilton Lahai, has raised alarm over what he describes as an escalating and widespread illegal occupation of public lands within the township, warning that the trend poses serious risks to state property and environmental protection.
In a statement issued on Friday, Commissioner Lahai said an administrative review conducted after he assumed office in July 2024 revealed extensive abuse of squatter arrangements and unauthorized use of government-owned land, including areas designated as protected wetlands.
“The review uncovered persistent violations of established regulations, including the construction of permanent structures on public land and the failure by many occupants to renew their squatter status for decades,” Lahai said, noting that there is a growing misconception that squatter rights amount to ownership.
He attributed the problem to weak enforcement mechanisms, limited public awareness, and insufficient oversight by relevant authorities.
According to Lahai, these gaps have allowed illegal occupancy to expand unchecked across the township.
The Commissioner stressed that public land remains the property of the Government of Liberia regardless of the length of occupation, noting that adverse possession does not apply to state-owned land.
He, however, cited the longstanding legal principle nullum tempus occurrit regimemeaning time does not run against the state-to underscore the government’s enduring claim to public property.
Of particular concern, Lahai said, is the increasing practice of individuals unlawfully occupying public land and subsequently selling it to unsuspecting citizens.
“In many cases, these individuals have no legal title or authority, yet they issue fraudulent deeds and conduct illegal transactions,” he said.
He warned that Liberia has historically lost significant portions of public land due to the misuse of squatter rights and unlawful land practices, describing the situation as one that requires urgent and decisive action to protect state assets and uphold the rule of law.
Commissioner Lahai called on all persons currently occupying public land to report to their respective city or township authorities to formally declare their status.
“This process will enable the authorities to properly guide occupants on lawful temporary occupancy or, where applicable, the correct legal procedures for land conveyance,” he said.
He added that the Township Administration remains committed to transparency, public education, and the protection of public lands for the benefit of present and future generations.
