The Akpelu family of Nkaraha in Ohaji-Egbema LGA of Imo State has called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to sack the Commissioner for Lands, Enyinna Onuegbu, over his alleged involvement in the plot to illegally seize their legally owned 18,000-plot estate in the community.
Mr. Francis Akpelu, who spoke with a broken heart with News Band Newspaper, accused the Commissioner of conniving with land speculators and a few corrupt government officials to override a Supreme Court judgment that had affirmed their ownership of the land.
“We are calling on Governor Uzodimma to immediately sack his Commissioner for Lands if he continues to act against the law. The Supreme Court has spoken, and yet, this land-grabbing operation is still ongoing under his watch,” Francis Akpelu stated.
The land, which was the subject of Suit Number SC/250/2005, was lawfully awarded to Matthew Akpelu after a long legal battle that began with a ruling by Justice Njiribeako of the Imo State High Court in 1996, later upheld by the Supreme Court. Despite this, the family claims that officials have mobilized military personnel to forcefully take possession of the land.
Adding to the growing tension, the Ohaji-Egbema Youth Movement (OEYM), led by Comrade Gerald Ukah, has warned that any breakdown of law and order in the area should be blamed on Commissioner Onuegbu if the alleged land grab is not stopped immediately.
“This is a direct attack on our people. If the government refuses to listen and stop this injustice, we will not be responsible for what happens next. We know Governor Uzodimma. He is a good man and our brother. Those trying to give him a bad name must be stopped. The Commissioner for Lands should be held accountable if things escalate. The Governor should sack him before it is too late,” Ukah declared.
The scandal has sparked outrage across Imo State, with legal experts, civil society organizations, and community leaders demanding an immediate investigation. Many are urging the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to look into the alleged collusion between government officials and land speculators.
Observers say the Governor’s response to this case will determine he deals with issues of corruption within his administration, as his government has previously vowed to combat land racketeering in the state.