Abia Residents Protest Alleged Forceful Takeover of Land

Residents of communities in Abia State have protested what they described as the forceful takeover of their land by the state government, raising concerns over an ongoing legal dispute involving the affected property.

The protesters said the development was taking place despite a pending case before the Abia State High Court, and called on the government to respect due process until the matter is resolved.

The disputed property, said to comprise more than 140 plots, was reportedly acquired by a state-owned company and subsequently sold to individuals for residential and commercial development.

Residents of the affected communities staged a peaceful protest, demanding that the government formally notify them of any proposed acquisition and comply with the relevant legal procedures.

They also expressed concern over plans for a proposed project on the disputed land, particularly reports of a planned foundation-laying ceremony. The protesters argued that such activities should not proceed while ownership and acquisition issues remain before the court.

The landowners called on the state government to allow them to develop their properties or, where acquisition is legally established, provide appropriate compensation in accordance with the law.

One of the legal representatives of the affected landowners alleged that no compensation had been paid despite the purported acquisition.

He said the affected families depended on the land for farming and residential purposes and had no alternative land to support their livelihoods and homes.

The protesters are therefore appealing to the state government to halt further development on the disputed property pending the determination of the case, while urging all parties to resolve the matter through lawful and peaceful means.