Legal Aid

LAND SCAM ALERT: “Mother Land Title” Doesn’t Exist

Let’s set the record straight for anyone buying land in Cameroon:

1. There is no legal instrument called a “mother land title.”
Every land certificate issued by the Land Registry has a specific name and a defined size.
It can be registered in the name of an individual, a family, a company, or a community/village.
And it covers an exact area, whether 500m², 1 hectare, 10 hectares, or more.

2. Don’t fall for the “global title” trick.
Scam agents will tell you: “This land is covered by the mother title for Molyko Layout, 50 hectares.”
That means nothing if your exact plot is not subdivided and registered in your name or in the name of the seller you’re dealing with.

A global or layout title only covers the total area surveyed. If your plot hasn’t been formally carved out and a certificate issued for it, you have no legal ownership. You’re buying air.

3. Always demand to see the actual Land Certificate / Title Deed.
Check that:
A. The name on the title matches the seller, or that there’s a valid deed of transfer.
B. The parcel number and size match the land you’re standing on.
C. The title is verified at the Land Registry in the Division where the land is located.

If they can’t show you a certificate for _that specific plot, walk away.

Buying land is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. Don’t let the phrase “mother title” blind you into losing your money.

Due diligence saves you from years of litigation. Buyers Beware.

Pay Your Lawyer for Advice, Not Just for a Signature

When buying land, your lawyer’s fee covers more than just signing the deed.

It pays for *due diligence, legal checks, and honest advice* on whether the land is safe to buy.

Here’s the key: *Pay your lawyer independently of the transaction outcome.*
If you only pay when you decide to proceed, they may hesitate to tell you “don’t buy” even if they find a red flag because they don’t want to lose the fee.
Protect yourself. Pay for objective, professional advice upfront.
It could save you from losing your money and your peace of mind.

Land Scandal in Fako Division: A Call for Accountability in Fako Division.

The recurring reports of double sales of land in Fako Division, particularly within Buea and its environs, are a matter of grave concern and a stain on traditional authority.

When traditional rulers or custodians of land engage in the practice of selling the same parcel to multiple purchasers, it creates legal uncertainty, fuels community disputes, and undermines public confidence in land administration. Such acts contravene the principles of good governance, the Land Ordinance of Cameroon, and the fiduciary duty expected of those who hold land in trust for their communities.

The consequences are real:
families lose savings, investors lose trust, and communities descend into avoidable conflict.
We call on:
1. The competent administrative and judicial authorities to investigate these allegations thoroughly and prosecute where evidence supports criminal conduct.
2. Traditional councils and chiefs to uphold transparency, maintain proper records, and act strictly within their custodial mandate.
3. Land buyers to conduct due diligence, verify titles, and ensure transactions are registered in accordance with the Law.

Land is heritage, not a commodity for exploitation. It is time to restore integrity, protect vulnerable buyers, and end the confusion caused by double dealings.