Federal Govt.Confirms Legal Possession of Umuofocha Umudibia Nekede Land — Says Property Was Lawfully Acquired, Compensation Duly Paid
Dan Opara
The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development in Imo State, has reaffirmed its legal ownership of the disputed land at Umuofocha Umudibia Nekede in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.
This clarification comes amid growing concerns from members of the Nekede community who have alleged forceful takeover and intimidation over 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 extending from the Imo Power Federal Sites and Services Scheme through MINFA Phases 1, 2 and 3, down to the adjoining areas of Umuofocha, were lawfully acquired decades ago by the Federal Government for developmental purposes.
Nze Ife emphasized that the Federal Government has no intention of displacing or oppressing any community.
He noted that the acquisition process was carried out in full compliance with the law and established procedures.
According to him, the government remains open to dialogue and is willing to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding that would serve the mutual interests of the Nekede community and national development.
He further clarified that the land in question falls under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry of Lands and not the Imo State Government, adding that the State Commissioner for Lands, Barrister Enyinna Onuegbu, has no involvement in the matter.
To substantiate 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, which verified the release of approximately 15 hectares of land for federal projects, as well as correspondences from O. K. Ofurum and Associates Ezendigbo Chambers and the Office of the Director of Lands, all authenticating the acquisition.
The Member representing Owerri West Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Chief Kanayo Onyemaechi (Dele), alongside other stakeholders, reportedly investigated the issue and confirmed that the disputed land is indeed a Federal Government property.
However, members of the Nekede community, under the aegis of the Elders-In-Council, have alleged that certain individuals are using government backing to intimidate residents and forcibly seize farmlands.
They identified a developer, Mr. Onyebuchi Buchi Oparaugo from Avu community, as the person leading the encroachment, allegedly 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 called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to intervene.
Similarly, Chief Raymond Uzoma Irechukwu, popularly known as Double Chief, reminded the authorities that the Nekede community had in the past generously donated lands for several state and federal projects, including the Federal Polytechnic Nekede and the Imo Power Project.
In their response, the community, through their legal representatives Okezia A. Ekeb & Co., petitioned the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 9 Headquarters, Umuahia, alleging conspiracy, intimidation and destruction of property.
Reacting to these allegations, Nze Solomon Ife confirmed that Mr. Onyebuchi Oparaugo is a duly approved developer working on behalf of the Federal Government.
He stated that all necessary consultations were held with community representatives and the Federal Controller of Lands before the commencement of development activities.
The Federal Controller of Lands, Engr. Dennis Dania, assured that the ministry remains committed to peaceful dialogue and urged community leaders to continue discussions with officials at the Federal Secretariat, Owerri, to achieve a lasting and mutually beneficial resolution.
Independent investigations further confirmed that the land was legitimately acquired by the Federal Government, although some individuals within the community may be attempting to exploit public sympathy for personal gain.
Nonetheless, community leaders including Elder Emeana and Chief Irechukwu reiterated their willingness to cooperate with government authorities in the interest of peace and progress.
As discussions continue, stakeholders expressed optimism that sustained dialogue, adherence to due process and community inclusion will ensure lasting peace and harmony in Umuofocha Umudibia Nekede.
