By Douglas Princemola
The Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development has stated that the disputed land at Umuofocha Umudibia Nekede in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State is a legally acquired federal property. This clarification comes amid renewed concerns from members of the Nekede community who claim forceful takeover and intimidation on their ancestral lands.
Speaking in Owerri, a former Chief Federal Lands Officer in Imo State, Nze Esv. Solomon Ife, explained that the parcels of land stretching from Imo Power Federal Sites and Services Scheme through MINFA Phases 1, 2, and 3 down to adjoining parts of Umuofocha were lawfully acquired decades ago for federal development purposes.
Nze Ife emphasized that the Federal Government does not intend to displace or oppress any community. He noted that all processes surrounding the land acquisition were carried out in compliance with the law and proper procedures. He also stated that the government remains open to dialogue and is willing to enter a Memorandum of Understanding that would benefit both the Nekede community and national development.
He further clarified that the land falls under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry of Lands and not the Imo State Government. The State Commissioner for Lands, Barrister Enyinna Onuegbu, has no involvement in the matter.
To support the government’s position, Nze Ife presented official documents confirming the legitimacy of the acquisition. These included a letter from the Imo State Ministry of Lands dated February 28, 2025, verifying the release of approximately 15 hectares of land for federal projects, as well as letters from O K Ofurum and Associates Ezendigbo Chambers and the Office of the Director of Lands, all authenticating the acquisition.
Hon Chief Kanayo Onyemaechi Dele, Member representing Owerri West Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly, and other stakeholders reportedly investigated the matter and confirmed that the Federal Government owns the disputed land.
On the other hand, members of the Nekede community, under the Elders-In-Council, alleged that some individuals are using government backing to intimidate residents and forcibly take farmlands. They named a developer, Mr Onyebuchi Buchi Oparaugo from Avu community, as leading the encroachment and using armed security operatives to harass locals.
Elder Deacon Eugene Emeana, one of the oldest men in the village, described the invasion as unjust and urged Governor Hope Uzodimma to intervene. Chief Raymond Uzoma Irechukwu, also known as Double Chief, reminded authorities that the community has historically donated lands for several state and federal projects including the Federal Polytechnic Nekede and the Imo Power project.
The community, through legal representatives Okezia A Ekeb and Co, petitioned the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 9 Headquarters, Umuahia, alleging conspiracy and destruction of property.
In response, Nze Solomon Ife confirmed that Mr Onyebuchi Oparaugo is a duly approved developer acting on behalf of the Federal Government. All necessary consultations were reportedly held with community representatives and the Federal Controller of Lands before development began.
The Federal Controller of Lands, Engr Dennis Dania, assured that the ministry remains open to peaceful discussions and urged the community leaders to continue dialogue at the Federal Secretariat in Owerri to achieve a lasting resolution.
Independent investigations confirmed that the land was legitimately acquired by the Federal Government, though some individuals in the community may be attempting to exploit public sympathy for personal gains. Community leaders, including Elder Emeana and Chief Irechukwu, reiterated their willingness to cooperate with authorities and support fair and mutually beneficial solutions.
As both sides continue discussions, stakeholders hope that dialogue, respect for due process, and community inclusion will ensure peace and a lasting resolution in Umuofocha Umudibia Nekede.
