Theory question 101
Land Use and Land Tenure(a) Define the term land tenure system and give four examples.
(b)(i) Discuss briefly land use decree (ii) State two advantages and two disadvantages of the decree.
Show the model answer
(a) Land tenure is the system by which land is owned, held, acquired and used by individuals or communities. Examples (any four): communal; inheritance; leasehold; rent/tenancy; outright purchase; gift; pledge; government/state ownership
(b)(i) The Land Use Decree (1978) vested all land in each state in the Governor, to hold in trust for the people; land is allocated through certificates of occupancy (urban) and local governments (rural); individuals hold rights of occupancy, not ownership
(ii) Advantages (any two): easier access to land for agriculture and government projects; checks land speculation; reduces land disputes; gives secure title for loans. Disadvantages (any two): delays and bureaucracy in getting land; the rich and influential acquire more land; reduces traditional owners' rights/compensation disputes; corruption
Define, give four examples, then discuss the decree.