Nadu Klottey Wulomo, the owner and ruler of Osu, has voiced strong concerns over the exclusion of allodial owners in recent land development projects on Osu lands.
Despite significant projects including road expansions, housing estates, and commercial facilities, the relevant authorities have often sidelined the traditional custodians of these lands.
The lands in question span several key areas, including the European residential area/Osu Mantse layout, Ringway Estates, Ragoons Estates, Roman Ridge, parts of Cantonments, Airport Residential Area, Airport Military Land from 37 Trotro Station to Airport City, Legon lands, Achimota Forest, and Marine Drive project lands. Nadu Klottey Wulomo asserts that the lack of consultation and transparency in these developments is unacceptable.
“As legally recognized custodians of these lands, it is our right and responsibility to actively be involved in shaping their future,” Wulomo stated.
“We seek transparency regarding all dealings and transactions on our lands. It is unacceptable that agreements are made, and funds change hands without informing us.”
Wulomo emphasized that their participation is crucial for ensuring equitable development, sustainability, and responsibility.
He revealed that some companies appear as constant purchasers of land marked as Government Lands, acting as if they are statutory government agencies.
This pattern of funneling properties and resources through such entities has resulted in immense profits for a few, while the Osu community remains underserved.
Specific instances of concern include the proliferation of illegal garages and shops along the main road in Osu, depriving the community of rightful revenue.
Despite attempts to address this, municipal authorities have claimed the land is needed for road expansion, yet only provide temporary permits, allowing commercial entities to profit long-term.
Another issue raised is the opacity surrounding lands given to the President in trust.
There is contention over whether the President can personally own lands held in trust, as original owners face challenges when attempting to develop these lands for their communities’ socio-economic benefits.
Nadu Klottey Wulomo highlighted that these issues are not isolated to Osu but are prevalent across Gadangme lands.
He called out the Lands Commission for allegedly turning into land sellers, with surveyors becoming land owners while the original custodians are left in the dark.
Despite these grievances, Wulomo expressed readiness to collaborate with the government, businesses, and other partners for the development of Osu and Gadangme.
He insisted on an equitable role where the voices of the allodial owners are heard, their ownership respected, and their peoples’ interests protected.
This, he believes, will enable a harmonized vision and co-create solutions that serve all stakeholders.
Source: Newsghana.com.gh