The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Lands has ordered for the immediate suspension of all activities on a contentious land parcel bordering Moi University, which is at the centre of a long-running dispute between the institution and Ngeria Estate Squatters.
The committee chaired by North Mugirango Member of Parliament (MP) Joash Nyamoko issued the directive after a fact-finding visit to the disputed land measuring approximately 1,500 acres.
The contentious parcel of land bordering Moi University in Eldoret is at the centre of a long-running dispute between the institution and Ngeria Estate Squatters.
The squatters sought the intervention of the National Assembly after unknown persons who they claimed were trespassers invaded the disputed land.
The squatters who also lay claim to the land claimed the trespassers began tilling the 1,500 acres in 2024 in readiness for planting.
The visit was preceded by a deliberative session between all stakeholders including the squatters and the University management.
The squatters had written to the National Assembly earlier this year seeking the Committee’s intervention after unknown trespassers allegedly invaded and begun tilling the contentious land in readiness for the 2024 planting season, amid the raging dispute.
Nyamoko said the committee would critically review the evidence adduced including additional documents presented by the university management backing its claim of ownership of the land, before drafting a final report for tabling in the House.
The chairperson further warned against any attempts to defy the Committee directive suspending activities on the contentious land.
“We will verify the evidence provided by both parties and investigate the claims made on the alleged hand of other parties in the dispute.” Nyamoko said.
Moi University Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Kosgey led the institution’s team before the committee, while officials of Ngeria Estate Squatters also presented their case on claim to the land.
Officials from the Ministry of Lands, the National Land Commission and the local administration also appeared before the Committee.
