By Our Correspondent
Indigenes of Umuawafor, Umuokereke and Umunwogu villages in Isiala Aro-Ngwa Autonomous Community, Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State, have appealed to the state government to halt further acquisition of their ancestral lands for development projects.
The affected communities made the appeal amid growing concerns over what they described as continued pressure on their available land, which they say is vital to the survival and future of their people.
According to the indigenes, the lands in question are not merely parcels of property but ancestral assets passed down through generations and relied upon by residents for farming, settlement and other economic activities.
They urged the Abia State Government to carefully review the situation and engage directly with representatives of the affected communities before taking any further steps concerning land acquisition.
The communities said they are not opposed to development projects that will benefit the people of Abia State. However, they want such projects to be carried out in a manner that respects the rights and interests of indigenous landowners.
They appealed to the government to consider the long-term implications of continued land acquisition on the affected villages, particularly the availability of land for future generations.
The indigenes also called for greater consultation and transparency in the process of acquiring community lands, stressing that residents should be properly informed and involved whenever projects are proposed within their ancestral territories.
They expressed concern that indiscriminate acquisition of land could leave many families and communities with limited space for agricultural activities, residential expansion and other legitimate uses.
The appeal comes at a time when development and infrastructure projects remain important components of the Abia State Government’s agenda.
While acknowledging the importance of infrastructure and economic development, the communities maintained that development should be balanced with the protection of indigenous interests and ancestral heritage.
They therefore called on the state government to intervene urgently and prevent any further acquisition of their lands until all outstanding concerns are properly addressed.
The affected communities also appealed for dialogue between government officials and community stakeholders, saying a peaceful and mutually acceptable solution can be reached through consultation and understanding.
They urged traditional rulers, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders to support efforts aimed at protecting the interests of the people while also promoting responsible development in the area.
The indigenes further called on the government to listen to their concerns and ensure that future development initiatives do not come at the expense of the rights, livelihoods and ancestral heritage of the affected communities.
They expressed hope that Governor Alex Otti’s administration would respond positively to their appeal and initiate discussions with the communities to resolve the matter amicably.
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