Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality, transparency, security and justice in the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment on the disputed Ogbuebulu land between Ndi Ebe and Ndi Ojiigwo Abam communities in Arochukwu Local Government Area.
The Supreme Court, in a 2002 judgment (IM/GA246/76), granted rightful ownership of the Ogbuebulu land to Ndi Ebe.
The administration of Governor Alex Otti has commenced steps to fully implement the ruling, while Ndi Ojiigwo Abam has accepted the judgment in the interest of peace and development.
Addressing members of Ndi Ojiigwo during a Save-Our-Soul march to Government House, Umuahia, the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, who was represented by the Director of Protocol (Political), Mr. Gideon Onwueyi, expressed concern over allegations that Ndi Ebe had been suppressing Ndi Ojiigwo despite the latter’s acceptance of the verdict.
Emetu described the judgment as “clear-cut,” noting that although it did not favour Ndi Ojiigwo, the community had submitted to its lawful execution.
“It is a thing of joy that we have a clear judgment. Though it is not in favour of Ndi Ojiigwo Abam people, they have accepted it in good faith. The Abia State Government will not relent in ensuring full implementation,” he said.
He reminded the communities that the judgment was delivered in 2002 and urged them to appreciate the present administration’s efforts toward fostering lasting peace, unity and development in the area.
The Deputy Governor maintained that sustaining peace falls within the statutory responsibilities of his office and described media criticisms allegedly directed at the office by some Ndi Ebe members as unfortunate and embarrassing.
“We carried out the necessary consultations. Both Ndi Ojiigwo and Ndi Ebe were invited to meetings. We met, consulted and fixed a date for the demarcation. It is improper for any party to agree during consultations and later publicly castigate the Deputy Governor’s office and, by extension, the Office of the Executive Governor,” he stated.
He appealed to Ndi Ojiigwo to maintain peace throughout the demarcation process.
Earlier, the President-General of Ndi Ojiigwo Abam, Mr. Ikwan Ebe Uka, alongside the Women Leader, Mrs. Chinyere Ume Obasi, and a stakeholder, Mr. Stephen Nwoke, alleged that their community had suffered acts of arson and attacks resulting in loss of lives, destruction of farmlands and damage to property.
They urged the government to expedite the execution of the Supreme Court judgment to ensure a peaceful environment.
Meanwhile, Ndi Ebe had earlier protested against the consultant handling the demarcation process. The government, however, assured the community of transparency, affirming the credibility and professional standing of the consultant.
“Surveyor Chris Nwanevo is a registered surveyor and a seasoned professional. We are confident in his competence to carry out this assignment,” Emetu said.
