The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting peace and ensuring the lawful execution of the Supreme Court judgment in the longstanding land dispute between Ndi Oji Ogwo Abam and Ndi Ebe Abam in Arochukwu Local Government Area.
Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu FNSE, the Director of Protocol (Political), Mr. Gideon Onwueyi, explained that the ongoing demarcation exercise is strictly in line with constitutional responsibilities and noted that Office of the Deputy Governor is constitutionally mandated to promote peace and handle conflict resolution across the state.
The intervention in the Abam land dispute, he emphasized, is not aimed at any community but seeks to sustain harmony and enforce the Supreme Court judgment delivered over 22 years ago.
The Deputy Governor revealed,that prior to the commencement of the demarcation, several conciliatory meetings were held, with invitations extended to representatives of both Ndi Ebe Abam and Ndi Oji Ugwo Abam. During these engagements, consultations were conducted, and a mutually agreed date was set for the exercise.
“It is therefore improper and unfortunate for any party, after participating in the consultative meetings, to publicly criticize the Office of the Deputy Governor and, by extension, the Office of the Executive Governor,” Emetu stated.
His Excellency,also noted that although the Supreme Court ruling did not favor Ndi Oji Ogwo Abam, the community had accepted its lawful implementation, demonstrating respect for due process and the rule of law.
Dismissing claims that armed personnel were deployed to intimidate residents, he described such allegations as unfounded, assuring that the demarcation is being carried out professionally by a certified and registered surveyor engaged by the state government.
Engr Emetu urged the residents of Ojiiugwo Abam to remain calm and avoid the disputed area while the tracing and demarcation process continues.
“the exercise is designed to provide clarity, prevent further tension, and ensure lasting peace”.
Reaffirming the stance of Governor Alex Otti’s administration, the Deputy Governor emphasized that the government remains committed to justice, lawful procedure, and peaceful coexistence among all communities in Abia State.
Earlier, during a peaceful demonstration at the Abia State Government House, representatives of the Ndi Oji Ogwo Abam community appealed to the state government to intervene urgently and resolve the longstanding land and boundary disputes that have fueled conflict over decades.
The President-General of Ndi Oji Ogwo Abam, Mr. Ikwan Ebe Uka, along with a stakeholder Mr. Stephen Nwoke, explained that the dispute with Ndi Ebe Abam dates back to 1976.They noted that while a court judgment favored Ndi Ebe Abam, their community is calling for strict implementation of the survey plan attached to the ruling.
They alleged that disagreements over alternative survey plans have previously led to attacks on Ndi Oji Ogwo Abam homes and properties in 1976, 2007, and 2022.
“We are not contesting the ruling; we only want the boundary implemented according to the judgment to ensure lasting peace,” they stated.
Similarly, Mrs. Chinyere Uma Obasi, a woman leader in the Ndi Oji Ogwo Abam community, recounted repeated disturbances, including attacks, destruction of property, and unlawful claims to land ownership. She stressed the need for government action to restore peace, warning that while her community prefers a peaceful resolution, they are prepared to defend themselves if necessary.
They representatives emphasized the urgency for government intervention, urging the authorities of Governor Alex Chioma Otti to take the necessary measures to prevent further conflicts and promote harmony among the communities.
Meanwhile, Ndi Ebe Abam had earlier protested against the consultant handling the demarcation process. The government, however, reassured them of the consultant’s transparency, credibility, and professionalism.
Surveyor Chris Nwanevo, a registered and experienced professional, has been entrusted with the assignment, Mr. Emetu affirmed.
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent office of the Deputy Governor
05-03-2026
