MEANING, CREATION AND CHARACTER OF FAMILY LAND UNDER NIGERIAN CUSTOMARY LAND LAW

Abstract

Variations in customary laws between different communities and ethnic groups require careful consideration especially when it comes to disputes over family land which requires legal expertise and strong understanding of customary law. This research work found that family land can be created by inheritance, communal allocation and purchase among several other means. In addition, usufructuary rights were discussed in the paper. The doctrinal method of research methodology is used by using journals, law textbooks, consulting relevant statutes and decided cases on the topic. The research work concludes by noting that family land cannot be divided or alienated without the consent of all family members.