A major land ownership dispute surrounding the farm of former President Charles Ghankay Taylor has prompted authorities in Bong County to halt all ongoing construction activities in the area. The decision has affected more than 25 houses, and had left dozens of residents uncertain about the future of their investments.
Bong County Land Administrator, Queens Cassell Massaquoi, ordered the enforcement action.
Madam Massaquoi led a team of officials to the disputed site, and directed the immediate suspension of all construction works pending a full review of ownership claims.
Authorities also seized construction materials during the operation as part of efforts to prevent further development on the contested property.
At the center of the controversy is approximately 70 acres of land located within the Charles Ghankay Taylor farm area.
Questions have emerged over the legal ownership of the property, and the legitimacy of transactions conducted by individuals, who “sold portions of the land to residents, and prospective homeowners.”
The dispute has sparked concern among local authorities, who say, the verification process is necessary to determine the rightful ownership of the land and protect residents from potentially fraudulent transactions. Several affected property owners, who rushed to the scene during the enforcement exercise, expressed frustration and disappointment. Some of them claimed that they purchased the land in “good faith” after they received assurances from sellers that ownership issues had already been addressed. Many residents said, they invested significant sums of money in acquiring plots and constructing homes, believing the transactions were “legitimate.”
Some reported that they had been assured that any dispute involved the property would be settled directly with the rightful owner, and not affect their ability to build.
The sudden suspension of construction has now left many of those families facing uncertainty, with partially completed structures standing idle while authorities investigate the matter.
Madam Massaquoi said, the decision was intended to prevent further complications, and ensure that all development activities comply with the land laws.
She said, the verification process remains ongoing, and assured residents that authorities will carefully review all available documents and ownership records before reaching any final conclusion.