The Abia State Government has assured the people of Ndi Ebe and Ndi Ojiigwo Abam communities in Arochukwu Local Government Area that the implementation of the Supreme Court ruling on the disputed Ogbuebulu land will be fair, transparent, and peaceful.
The Supreme Court, in a 2002 judgment (IM/GA246/76), declared Ndi Ebe as the rightful owners of the Ogbuebulu land.
The administration of Governor Alex Otti is now working to implement the judgment. The Ndi Ojiigwo Abam community has accepted the court’s decision in the interest of peace and development in the area.
Speaking to Ndi Ojiigwo people during a Save-Our-Soul protest at the Government House in Umuahia, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu—represented by the Director of Protocol (Political), Mr. Gideon Onwueyi—expressed concern over claims that Ndi Ebe members were allegedly mistreating Ndi Ojiigwo people, despite their acceptance of the court ruling. He also criticized attempts to misrepresent the Deputy Governor’s office.
He said it was good that there is a clear court judgment on the matter.
“Although the judgment did not favour the Ndi Ojiigwo Abam people, they have accepted it and are willing to follow the law. The Abia State Government will continue to ensure that the judgment is fully implemented,” he said.
He reminded the communities that the judgment was delivered in 2002 and urged them to appreciate the efforts of the current administration to bring lasting peace, unity, and development to the area.
Emetu said maintaining peace is part of the responsibilities of the Deputy Governor’s office. He described media criticisms reportedly made by some members of Ndi Ebe against the office as unfortunate and embarrassing.
“We held several meetings and consultations. Both Ndi Ojiigwo and Ndi Ebe were invited. After discussions, we agreed on a date for the land demarcation. It is not right for any group to agree during meetings and later publicly criticize the Deputy Governor’s office and the office of the Governor,” he said.
He urged the Ndi Ojiigwo community to remain peaceful during the demarcation process.
Earlier, the President-General of Ndi Ojiigwo Abam, Mr. Ikwan Ebe Uka, the Women Leader, Mrs. Chinyere Ume Obasi, and a stakeholder, Mr. Stephen Nwoke, alleged that their community had suffered attacks, including arson, which led to loss of lives, destruction of farmlands, and damage to property.
They appealed to the government to speed up the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment to restore peace in the area.
Meanwhile, the Ndi Ebe community had earlier protested against the consultant handling the demarcation process. However, the government assured them that the process would be transparent and that the consultant is qualified.
“Surveyor Chris Nwanevo is a registered and experienced surveyor. We are confident in his ability to carry out this assignment,” Emetu said.
