COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE TRADITIONAL PRACTICE OF KILLING GOATS AND THE PERFORMANCE OF OTHER TRADITIONAL RITES: THE SAME AS THE CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY IN THE LAND USE ACT

Abstract

This study conducts a comparative analysis of traditional practices (killing of goats and performance of other traditional rites) and the Certificate of Occupancy in Nigeria's Land Use Act, exploring similarities and differences between these two approaches to land ownership and usage. While traditional practices hold cultural and spiritual significance, the Certificate of Occupancy represents a legal document. The analysis reveals convergences and divergences between these approaches, highlighting the importance of integrating traditional practices into modern land management systems. The research promotes cultural preservation, community engagement, and inclusive land reform, encouraging a nuanced understanding of the complex relationships between culture, tradition, and law in Nigeria. The findings contribute to the development of a more inclusive and sustainable approach to land ownership and usage, reconciling traditional practices with modern land management in Nigeria. The paper recommended that government should recognize and incorporate traditional practices into Nigeria's land use policies and laws, ensuring cultural sensitivity and community engagement. Also to develop a dual-system approach that acknowledges both traditional practices and modern land ownership documents like the Certificate of Occupancy.