By Emmanuel Mandella

The Deputy Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu has issued a stern warning against the illegal sale and demarcation of public land, saying the act is a critical threat to sustainable development.

Speaking during an interview on Sunday, the Deputy Governor condemned the encroachment on land earmarked for essential public amenities, such as schools, markets, and recreational facilities.

“It is unacceptable. Public land is vanishing, and this is a threat to our future. Cities need spaces for leisure, open markets, and agriculture,” Badagbu stated.

He drew attention to his previous efforts to halt similar practices during his tenure as Governor of the defunct Gbudue State, stressing that unregulated land sales reflect poor urban planning.

“We must have a city plan with well-structured roads and infrastructure. This is critical for boosting development and ensuring a sustainable future for our communities,” he emphasized.

Badagbu commended Governor Alfred Futuyo for his ongoing efforts to curb illegal land sales and pledged to address the matter in upcoming Cabinet discussions. He also called on stakeholders, including community leaders and urban planners, to work together in preserving public land for education, trade, and recreation.

Meanwhile, residents and traders in Yambio have expressed their frustration over the situation, noting how the illegal sale of land disrupts their livelihoods and the area’s development potential.

“This land-grabbing is robbing us of places where our children could go to school or where we could grow food,” complained a community elder.

“We need a proper plan for markets. People selling public land are prioritizing their pockets over the community’s welfare,” signaled a trader.

A resident, calling for prompt action, said: “If these sales are not stopped, future generations will have no space for basic infrastructure like hospitals and schools. The government must act swiftly.”

For their part, traders also criticized the lack of regulation, with one shop owner saying, “Public land is meant to serve us all, but a few individuals are exploiting it for personal gain. It’s time for authorities to step in and enforce the law.”

Badagbu’s remarks align with increasing public outcry over land misuse across Western Equatoria State. Community members have called for a transparent land registry system and stronger enforcement of urban planning regulations to prevent further illegal activities.

As cabinet meeting nears, citizens and traders in the state hope the government will take decisive steps to protect public spaces and ensure that land serves its intended purpose, of fostering development and improving livelihoods.