An Assessment of Claimants’ Experiences with Compulsory Land Acquisition and Compensation Practices in Ede, Osun State

This study assessed claimants’ experiences with compulsory land acquisition and compensationpractices in Ede, Osun State, focusing on procedural participation, transparency, timeliness, andsocio-cultural and economic impacts. A survey research design was adopted, targeting 152claimants affected by the Akoda–Cottage Junction–Timi Palace Junction road dualization project.Using a census approach, structured questionnaires were administered to all claimants, with 146valid responses retrieved (96.1% response rate). Data were analysed using descriptive andinferential statistics in SPSS. Findings revealed high satisfaction in decision-making involvement(91.1%), process timeliness (93.1%), compensation amount (89.8%), and asset enumeration(88.4%). However, a major weakness emerged in compensation payment timelines, with 71.3%dissatisfied. Socio-cultural and economic impacts were significant: 85.6% reported erosion ofcultural heritage, 89.7% loss of headship/goodwill, 93.8% disruption of livelihoods, and 98% lossof communal ownership. Correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship betweencompulsory acquisition level and compensation practices (r = 0.762, p = 0.001) and betweenacquisition level and influencing factors (r = 0.842, p = 0.010). The study concluded that whileprocedural inclusivity and transparency were commendable, delays in compensation paymentsundermined overall satisfaction and claimant welfare. It is recommended that compensationdisbursements be prompt, valuation methods broadened to capture socio-cultural losses, andparticipatory decision-making strengthened through effective communication and administrativeefficiency. A holistic approach integrating financial adequacy, cultural sensitivity, and proceduraltransparency is necessary to enhance fairness and legitimacy in compulsory land acquisition.