The effect of land speculation on smallholder farmers' livelihoods in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, Edo State.
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Background of the study:
Land speculation in Uhunmwonde has become a contentious issue affecting smallholder farmers’ livelihoods. Traditionally reliant on agriculture for income, these farmers now face challenges as speculative practices drive up land prices and disrupt traditional land tenure systems (Eghosa, 2023; Onwubu, 2024). Speculators purchase land with the anticipation of rapid value appreciation, often displacing farmers and causing uncertainty regarding land rights. This trend not only reduces the available arable land for cultivation but also undermines the economic stability of rural communities. Recent research indicates that the adverse effects of land speculation are compounded by weak regulatory frameworks and corruption (Ike, 2025). Consequently, the study examines how land speculation disrupts traditional farming practices, alters rural economies, and forces smallholder farmers into precarious positions economically. By investigating these dynamics, the study aims to offer insights into policy interventions that can safeguard farmers’ livelihoods while regulating speculative practices in the land market.
Statement of the problem:
Land speculation in Uhunmwonde has led to inflated land prices, displacing smallholder farmers and disrupting agricultural production. This practice undermines the economic viability of rural communities, as farmers are often forced to sell their land or face reduced productivity. The resulting uncertainty in land tenure further exacerbates socio-economic challenges. Despite its growing impact, there is limited empirical research on the direct effects of land speculation on smallholder livelihoods, necessitating an in-depth investigation to inform effective policy responses.
Objectives of the study:
1. To evaluate the economic impact of land speculation on smallholder farmers.
2. To analyze how speculative practices alter land tenure and agricultural productivity.
3. To recommend policy measures to protect farmers’ livelihoods from speculative pressures.
Research questions:
1. How does land speculation affect the income and stability of smallholder farmers?
2. What are the primary mechanisms through which speculation disrupts land tenure?
3. Which policies can effectively mitigate the adverse effects of land speculation?
Research Hypotheses:
1. Land speculation negatively affects the income of smallholder farmers.
2. Speculative practices significantly reduce the availability of arable land for traditional farming.
3. Strengthening land tenure policies improves the economic security of smallholder farmers.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it offers a critical analysis of how land speculation affects smallholder farmers’ livelihoods, providing policy recommendations to protect rural economies. It contributes to the academic discourse on land management and rural development.
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to examining the effect of land speculation on smallholder farmers in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, Edo State and does not cover urban land markets or large-scale commercial agriculture.
Definitions of terms:
• Land speculation: The practice of buying land with the intent of selling it at a profit due to anticipated value increases.
• Smallholder farmers: Farmers managing small plots of land primarily for subsistence or local market sale.
• Livelihoods: The means of securing income and sustenance for households.
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