An Open Letter to the Governor of Anambra State
His Excellency, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR
Subject: Urgent Appeal Over Alleged Illegal Land Takeover and Rising Tension in Omalima Layout, Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi LGA
Your Excellency,
We write to you with a deep sense of concern and urgency over the growing tension currently gripping Omalima Layout, Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, following a disturbing incident of alleged land theft and intimidation reportedly carried out under the guise of “government directives.”
On Tuesday, panic spread across the community when armed men allegedly claiming to be acting on government orders invaded the area, forcefully preventing landowners from accessing their legally acquired properties. Homes and perimeter fences were reportedly destroyed, creating fear, confusion, and distress among residents. This development triggered a spontaneous protest by community members who demanded immediate government intervention to halt what they described as an illegal and forceful land takeover.
The Chairman of the Estate, Chief Moses, whose property was also affected, lamented the destruction and intimidation suffered by landowners. According to him, residents purchased their lands legally and possess valid documentation to prove ownership. In his words:
“Our people are crying; their houses and fences have been destroyed. We bought this land legally and have all our documents intact. We are begging the state government to come to our rescue.”
Of further concern is the reported attack on a correspondent of Pechilly Investigative Media during an on-site investigation. The journalist was allegedly confronted by some men who claimed they had instructions “not to allow anyone” into the disputed area. Such actions, if true, represent a direct assault on press freedom and the public’s right to know.
One of the men on ground, Mr. Sunday Ogaazi (popularly known as “One Man 30”), stated that he and his team were acting on instructions related to land ownership claims. He further alleged that the operation involved individuals named Chukwuma Okpolaezeukwu of the Office of the Special Adviser Department, whom he claimed were acting on “government directives.” These assertions have understandably sparked outrage among residents, who fear that government institutions may be being misused to intimidate private citizens.
One affected landowner, identified as Chidi, emotionally recounted his ordeal, stating that even the property of All Saints Anglican Church in the area was demolished. He questioned why the name of the government should be used to dispossess law-abiding citizens of their property, describing the act as cruel and unjust.
Your Excellency, the people of Omalima Layout are not questioning your commitment to justice, due process, and the rule of law—values your administration is widely known for. Rather, they are appealing to you to intervene swiftly to prevent further breakdown of law and order, restore public confidence, and protect innocent citizens from abuse of power.
We respectfully call on you to:
1. Order an immediate and independent investigation into the alleged invasion and destruction of property.
2. Identify and hold accountable any individuals or officials found to be acting outside the law while invoking government authority.
3. Verify land ownership records through the appropriate legal and administrative channels.
4. Ensure the protection of residents, journalists, and religious institutions, and restore peace to the affected community.
Failure to act promptly may escalate tensions and undermine public trust, potentially tarnishing the image of an administration built on transparency, reform, and accountability. The people fear that continued silence could embolden further illegal actions and provoke unrest.
Your Excellency, Anambra citizens look to your leadership at this critical moment. We trust that your intervention will bring clarity, justice, and lasting peace to Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka and reaffirm the principle that no one is above the law.
Yours faithfully,
Concerned Residents of Omalima Layout,
Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi LGA
With support from community leaders, civil rights advocates, and Pechilly Investigative Media
