Boundary communities in Enugu State, specifically Ugwuakulu, Ugwuto, Nchanawa, and Agbaogwu Umudioha in the Udi and Ezeagu local government areas, have called on the state government to engage them constructively regarding a piece of land earmarked for development.
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The residents of these communities, bearing placards with various messages, protested against what they claim are plans by the state government to displace them from their ancestral lands without following due process.
In an interview with Daily Gazette, Usmond Nwabuisi, Chairman of Nchanawa Ogwofia autonomous community, urged the government to engage in dialogue with community leaders to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Similarly, Simeon Enwu, Chairman of Ugwuakulu village in Nsude, Udi LGA, represented by Hon. Emmanuel Ozoani, described the government’s actions as unjust and called for a clear statement of the terms of reference.
In contrast, Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, Managing Director of the Enugu State Investment Authority, asserted in a telephone interview that the land acquisition followed all legal procedures from the administration of former Governor Chimaroke Nnamani to the current Governor, Peter Mbah.
He stated that agreements were duly signed by the communities and the government, emphasizing that the development would bring significant benefits to the area.
The contentious piece of land is located at Okpoto along the Enugu-Onitsha expressway and is designated by the state government for the establishment of a spare parts company.
Daily Gazette Correspondent reports that the communities involved is seeking a more transparent and inclusive process regarding their ancestral lands.
