The Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodimma on Land Recovery, Mr. Paschal Nwakamma, has issued a strong warning to individuals who have purchased or built on the government-acquired land in Umuerim Nekede Naze, urging them to vacate the area. He emphasized that the land, which was sold to buyers without valid allocation papers, belongs to the state government and will be reclaimed.
Mr. Nwakamma declared that any structures erected on the land will be demolished if not cleared within a 21-day grace period. The government has initiated steps to recover the property, known as “Imo Power Extension,” located in Owerri West Local Government Area.
During an on-site visit with his team, accompanied by local elders and youths, Mr. Nwakamma recalled that in 2013, the former Imo State Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Laurence Eburuo, approved the allocation of the land following an agreement with the state government. However, landowners vanished with the documentation, and the property was improperly sold to unsuspecting buyers.
Nwakamma assured that the state government, in collaboration with the community, is determined to reclaim the land and reaffirmed the government’s stance against any form of land fraud.
Meanwhile, the legal representative of the original landowners, Mr. Gerald Aririguzo, revealed that the community had pursued legal action in 2013 when they observed illegal encroachment on their property. He explained that while the previous administration attempted to reconcile with the community, it ultimately violated the agreement by selling the land to private buyers despite the ongoing court case.
Mr. Aririguzo confirmed that the original landowners have now reached a resolution with the current administration and are eager to regain the land for the state’s development.
