Abia State Government Denounces False Claims Over Compensation for Airport Land Acquisition

The Abia State Government has strongly refuted recent media reports alleging irregularities in the compensation process for landowners affected by the Abia Airport land acquisition.

In an official statement Signed by the Director , Information,Josephine Ogwo and issued by the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka I. Chukwumerije, the government described the allegations as “false, misleading, and designed to misinform the public.”

The Commissioner clarified that the Ministry of Lands and Housing does not appoint attorneys on behalf of claimants, nor does it compel any landowner to engage the services of a particular Estate Valuer. “The right to be represented—or not—by an attorney or valuer rests solely with the claimant, as enshrined in the Constitution,” Mr. Chukwumerije stated.

Addressing concerns about alleged financial impropriety, the Commissioner emphasized that 100% of compensation payments are made directly to verified claimants, except in cases where a claimant has voluntarily appointed an attorney. In such instances, attorney fees are deducted based strictly on the claimant’s contractual agreement with the said attorney.

To protect the rights of landowners and maintain transparency, the Ministry has implemented a robust verification process, which includes the presentation of valid identification documents and repeated sensitization exercises to ensure claimants are fully aware of their rights and options.

Mr. Chukwumerije further noted that, as of the date of this release, no compensation has been paid to any attorney. All payments are being withheld until the conclusion of an ongoing double-verification exercise designed to eliminate fraud and enhance accountability.

The government is encouraging any individual or group with credible evidence of malpractice to present such information to the relevant authorities. All allegations will be investigated thoroughly and handled on a case-by-case basis.

In conclusion, the Commissioner urged members of the public to disregard unfounded reports circulating in the media, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and fairness in the compensation process for all affected landowners.

Signed by the
Director , Information,
Josephine Ogwo