Were ready for dialogue on land use charge ambode

Let's have a dialogue on the Land Use Charge (LUC) in Lagos State, specifically on the implementation of the policy by former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

Moderator: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Today, we're discussing the Land Use Charge (LUC) in Lagos State, which was implemented by former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. We have two guests, Mr. Olamide, a real estate expert, and Mrs. Aisha, a resident of Lagos. Welcome, both of you.

Mr. Olamide: Thank you. I'm happy to be here.

Mrs. Aisha: Thank you. I'm looking forward to sharing my thoughts.

Moderator: Let's start with the basics. Can you explain what the Land Use Charge is, Mr. Olamide?

Mr. Olamide: The Land Use Charge is a tax imposed by the Lagos State Government on all landowners, including individuals, companies, and organizations, to generate revenue for the state. The charge is calculated based on the value of the land, and it's meant to encourage the development of vacant lands and promote urban planning.

Moderator: That's interesting. Mrs. Aisha, how do you think the LUC has affected you and your community?

Mrs. Aisha: Honestly, it's been a nightmare. The charge is too high, and it's putting a lot of pressure on us. Many of my neighbors are struggling to pay the charge, and some have even had to sell their properties to meet the deadline. It's also created a lot of uncertainty, as people are worried about the future of their properties.

Moderator: I see. Mr. Olamide, what's your take on the LUC? Do you think it's a good policy?

Mr. Olamide: Well, I think the LUC has its merits. It's a way for the government to generate revenue and encourage development. However, I think the implementation has been flawed. The charge is too high, and the government didn't provide enough notice or support for landowners. It's also created a lot of bureaucracy and red tape, which is frustrating for many people.

Moderator: That's a valid point. Mrs. Aisha, do you think the government should reconsider the LUC or make changes to the policy?

Mrs. Aisha: Yes, I think so. The government should review the charge and make it more reasonable. They should also provide more support and assistance to landowners, especially those who are struggling to pay. And they should make sure that the revenue generated from the LUC is used effectively to benefit the people of Lagos.

Moderator: Thank you both for your insights. It's clear that the LUC has had a significant impact on the people of Lagos. Mr. Olamide, do you think the government will make changes to the policy?

Mr. Olamide: I hope so. The government has already received a lot of feedback from the public, and I think they're taking it seriously. They may need to make some adjustments to the policy to make it more effective and fair.

Moderator: Well, we'll have to wait and see. Thank you both for joining us today and sharing your thoughts on the Land Use Charge.

Mr. Olamide: Thank you.

Mrs. Aisha: Thank you.