Authorities of the Nigerian Correctional Service and landowners in Avu community, Imo State, have raised the alarm over what they described as a brazen land grab, calling on the government to return 38.76 hectares of land allegedly forcefully taken by suspected agents of the state.
The land, originally 61 hectares allocated to the Prisons Service under the 1977 master plan of Imo State, has reportedly been encroached upon in recent weeks, with fences broken and structures demolished under the pretext of security operations.
Speaking to journalists, Chief Sam Anokam, attorney representing the Correctional Service and affected allottees, condemned the action. “I am protecting the MoU the government signed with the Prisons and their compensatory rights.
They broke the Correctional Service fence and demolished houses under the pretext of chasing criminals.
This is not how you chase criminals. Our demand is clear: restore the land immediately, or all allottees and the Correctional Service will occupy it,” Anokam warned.
He also cautioned that individuals illegally purchasing land in Owerri West, originally excised to host communities by the Federal Government, risk losing their acquisitions.
Deputy Controller of Corrections, I. Stanley Chima, representing Controller Mike Okorie, confirmed that the service had reported the encroachment to relevant government agencies.
“This is their land. Any demolition without due process is unacceptable,” he said.
Elder Vincent Njoku, PRO of the Avu Elders Council, described the situation as alarming.
“Some persons, accompanied by security agents, broke fences and demolished structures. Land grabbing is a serious problem here. If nothing is done, the community risks losing its land entirely.
The intimidation must stop,” he said.
In response, Imo State Commissioner for Lands, Chief Enyinnaya Onuegbu, said Governor Hope Uzodimma ensures due process in land administration.
“The Ministry handles all documentation appropriately, ensuring lawful allocation and compensation where necessary,” he stated.
The standoff has heightened tensions in Avu, as both the Correctional Service and landowners insist on immediate restitution, warning that continued inaction could escalate the dispute.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
