Tension simmered in Delta State on Monday as the government stepped in to douse rising tempers over a festering land dispute in Ugbolu Community, Oshimili North Local Government Area.
Addressing protesting landowners and residents at Government House in Asaba, the Director of Protocol, Chief Sunday Onoriode, struck a conciliatory tone, urging all sides to sheathe their swords and allow due process to take its course.
He assured the aggrieved parties that the state would move swiftly to untangle the dispute involving landowners and estate developers, describing the situation as one that would not be swept under the carpet.
Onoriode also tipped his hat to the demonstrators for keeping their protest peaceful, noting that they chose the high road rather than letting the situation spiral out of control.
“I sincerely thank you for bringing your complaints to Government House, Asaba. I am pleased that you did not take the law into your own hands, and I urge you to remain peaceful,” he said.
He reiterated that the governor, whom he portrayed as a staunch defender of the rule of law, would give the matter the attention it deserves and ensure fairness prevails.
“I have heard all you have said. As you know, our governor is a law-abiding citizen, and I can assure you that he will look into this matter and ensure that justice is served,” he added.
Earlier, the group leader, Dr Ofili Okweose, laid bare the protesters’ grievances, alleging wrongful takeover of their land and the forceful demolition of their properties.
According to him, the disputed expanse, stretching across hundreds of hectares and owned by thousands, largely civil servants, had remained undisturbed for over 20 years until the recent upheaval.
“Our concern is that we acquired land in Ugbolu-Amachai quarters and have used it for years without hindrance. Nobody challenged us, and there was no contention whatsoever.
“Just a few weeks ago, someone brought in bulldozers, cleared the entire area and carved it into a layout,” he said.
Okweose further claimed that findings pointed to alleged dealings between certain officials in the Ministry of Lands and members of the Ugbolu community, creating the impression that the land had been acquired by the government.
“But we know that government does not acquire land to hand over to estate developers for private business.
“If that happens, the court will nullify it. That is far from a legitimate government acquisition,” he said.
He accused some individuals, community actors and developers of working hand in glove to market the land under the cloak of a supposed state-backed project.
“The summary of what is happening is that some unscrupulous senior civil servants are using the name of the state, in collaboration with some elements in Ugbolu and estate developers, to sell our land,” he alleged.
Raising further doubts, Okweose pointed to the absence of standard government project markers and documentation, questioning the authenticity of the development.
He also decried the manner of the demolition, describing it as heavy-handed and unlawful, adding that although the matter had been reported to the Delta State Police Command, no action had been taken, fueling the protest that remained peaceful but resolute.
