Residents Petition Soludo Over Alleged Illegal Land Takeover in Anambra Community

By Mary Obi

Rising tension has gripped Omalima Layout in Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, following allegations of an illegal land takeover reportedly carried out under the guise of government authority.

Residents say panic broke out on Tuesday when armed men, allegedly claiming to be acting on “government directives,” invaded the area and prevented landowners from accessing their properties. According to multiple accounts, houses and perimeter fences were demolished, triggering fear, confusion, and widespread distress within the community.

The incident led to a spontaneous protest by residents, who accused the invaders of forceful and unlawful land seizure and called for immediate intervention by the Anambra State Government.

Chairman of the estate, Chief Moses, whose property was also reportedly affected, described the situation as devastating. He maintained that landowners in the area acquired their plots legally and possess valid documents to support their claims.

“Our people are crying. Their houses and fences have been destroyed. We bought this land legally and have all the necessary documents. We are appealing to the state government to come to our rescue,” he said.

Adding to concerns is an alleged attack on a correspondent of Pechilly Investigative Media who was reportedly assaulted while attempting to investigate the situation on site. The journalist was allegedly confronted by men who claimed they had instructions “not to allow anyone” into the disputed area. Media advocates say such actions, if confirmed, amount to an assault on press freedom and the public’s right to information.

One of the men reportedly present at the site, identified as Mr. Sunday Ogaazi, popularly known as “One Man 30,” claimed that he and others were acting on instructions connected to disputed land ownership.

He further alleged that individuals linked to the Office of the Special Adviser, including one Chukwuma Okpolaezeukwu, were involved and that the operation was based on “government directives.”

These claims have intensified public outrage, with residents expressing fear that government institutions may be invoked to intimidate private citizens unlawfully.

An affected landowner, identified as Chidi, recounted his experience emotionally, alleging that even property belonging to All Saints Anglican Church in the area was demolished.

“Why should the name of government be used to dispossess law-abiding citizens of their land? This is cruel and unjust,” he said.

In an open letter addressed to Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, concerned residents stressed that they are not questioning his administration’s commitment to justice and the rule of law.

Rather, they appealed for swift intervention to prevent a breakdown of law and order and to restore public confidence.

The residents called on the governor to:

Order an immediate and independent investigation into the alleged invasion and destruction of property.

Identify and hold accountable any individuals or officials found to have acted unlawfully while invoking government authority.

Verify land ownership claims through appropriate legal and administrative channels.

Ensure the protection of residents, journalists, and religious institutions, and restore peace to the community.

Community leaders and civil rights advocates warn that failure to act promptly could escalate tensions, erode public trust, and undermine the credibility of an administration known for transparency, reform, and accountability.

As anxiety continues to mount in Omalima Layout, residents say they are relying on Governor Soludo’s leadership to bring clarity, justice, and lasting peace, and to reaffirm the principle that no one is above the law.

The appeal is jointly supported by community leaders, civil rights advocates, and Pechilly Investigative Media.