Tension is mounting in Umuariaga Oboro, Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, following a strong warning from the state Commissioner for Lands, Chaka Chimereije, over ongoing land disputes involving Umuariaga and neighbouring Ofeke communities.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over boundary encroachment and ownership of vast land areas reportedly covering over 900 hectares in Umuariaga and more than 600 hectares in Ofeke.
Authorities have emphasized strict adherence to officially mapped boundaries, cautioning that unlawful occupation or actions capable of disrupting peace will not be tolerated.
According to reports shared by local media, including Ikwuano TV, the government has already conducted detailed surveys of the disputed areas, clearly outlining access roads, residential layouts, and development plans as part of a long-term urban expansion strategy.
At a crucial meeting between the Abia State Ministry of Lands and representatives of the Umuariaga community, led by legal counsel Monday Ubani (SAN), both parties agreed to continue dialogue, with further deliberations scheduled for the coming week.
Speaking during the engagement, Ubani highlighted the community’s historical contributions to government institutions such as the National Root Crops Research Institute and Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, stressing that the land in question represents the community’s only accessible flat terrain. He appealed for alternative sites to be considered for the proposed development.
CDA News Nigeria However gathered that the Commissioner Chimereije maintained that Umuariaga falls within the state’s designated urban development zone, making it difficult for the government to ignore such expansive undeveloped land. He urged residents to embrace development opportunities and engage constructively rather than resist.
Minutes from an expanded land committee meeting held on March 25, 2026, revealed that the state government has already mapped out the area under a proposed 25-year development plan linked to Governor Alex Oti’s urban agenda. The plan is expected to include infrastructure development, with indications that access roads through Ofeke have already been awarded.
Community leaders, including Chief Onyekachi Igbudu and Chief Sir Samuel Okereke, briefed members—both at home and in the diaspora—on the situation, confirming that negotiations are ongoing. The committee resolved to collaborate with the government through legal channels to ensure that development plans also protect the interests of indigenous landowners.
As part of the next steps, residents with land in the affected areas have been directed to submit detailed ownership records through their village heads. The committee also warned that failure to engage proactively could lead to government acquisition under existing land laws, potentially resulting in loss of control over the land.
Despite rising tension, both the government and the community have expressed commitment to dialogue and mutual understanding, raising hopes for a peaceful resolution that balances development with local interests.
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