Indigenes of Umuezerokam community in Umuoma Nekede, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State have raised alarm over what they describe as persistent illegal trespass and encroachment on their ancestral farmlands.
The affected lands, known as Ama-Okwu and Okpo Uvume, are said to be among the few remaining farmlands sustaining the community, having been in their possession for generations.
A delegation led by Chief Kennedy Anosike, Elder U.K Amadi, and Youth Chairman Ifeanyi Amadi, alongside other stakeholders, had earlier met with officials of the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Urban Planning to register their complaints.
At the meeting, the Commissioner assured them that the administration of Hope Uzodimma is not involved in land grabbing. He subsequently directed the Town Planning Department to inspect the area and establish proper boundaries based on the approved layout plan.
The team’s findings reportedly confirmed encroachment by individuals falsely claiming to act on behalf of the government. However, the community lamented that the trespass has continued despite this intervention.
Tension heightened following an incident on January 16, 2026, when some individuals allegedly invaded the farmlands and arrested farmers, including Mr. Njoku Chibuzor and Mr. Paul Kamalu. The victims were detained at the State Police Command Headquarters and later released on bail without clear justification. The perpetrators reportedly claimed they were acting on the instructions of a lawyer from Okolochi village.
Community leaders insist that although the government previously acquired land at Okwu village—now developed as Fulfillment Layout—no portion of Umuezerokam land was ever acquired. They maintain that there was no notice, agreement, or compensation process, and that official records at the Ministry support their position.
They further emphasized that Umuezerokam has a history of supporting government development, having released land for several projects, including Reclamation Layout, parts of Avu Resettlement Layout, Alaoma Layout, Rescue Layout, and Shared Prosperity Layout.
“We are not against government acquisition,” a leader stated. “But we strongly oppose unlawful trespass and illegal land grabbing.”
The community warned that any forceful takeover of the remaining farmlands could worsen unemployment among youths and increase insecurity.
While commending the government for its developmental efforts, the people of Umuezerokam called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to urgently intervene, stop the alleged encroachment, and prevent further misuse of the government’s name.
The community reaffirmed its commitment to peace but insists that its ancestral land must be protected.
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