Elgeyo Marakwet leaders warn residents against selling land as Tullow Oil Company prospects for oil in region

Local leaders have cautioned residents' against haphazard selling of land as Tullow Oil Company prospects for oil in the region.

Led by local Governor Alex Tolgos and former Cabinet minister Nicholas Biwott, leaders expressed concern that residents were selling their land at throw-away prices.

They urged residents to put up houses and hospitality facilities if they are to benefit from any oil find in the region.

Since Tullow Oil started prospecting for oil in the region classified as Block 12A and covers over 7,000 square kilometres, land prices have sky-rocketed with brokers duping residents into selling their plots at throw-away prices.

"We have heard reports of brokers invading the area and buying land for speculative purposes. They know the price of land will definitely shoot up once more oil is found," said Biwott at Iten town during the opening of a Trans National Bank branch in the area.

He said already, several locals have been conned into selling their land to unscrupulous individuals who are positioning themselves to reap big from the oil find.

"Let Tullow Oil carry out its activities and if oil is found you will be compensated handsomely," urged Biwott,

The leaders who spoke at Walbei Primary School in Kerio Valley during a meeting to sensitise the local community on oil drilling, Tolgos also warned residents against engaging in land feuds.

"We have put in place a board that would arbitrate land disputes," said the governor.

Senator Kipchumba Murkomen said they would ensure residents are compensated for their land.