June 8, 2026
By SUNTV Global Channel News Desk
Residents of Egbelu Obube Autonomous Community in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State have raised serious concerns over an alleged forceful takeover of their ancestral land by individuals they claim are linked to the state government.
The community alleged that armed men, accompanied by bulldozers and security operatives, invaded portions of their land despite an ongoing court case concerning ownership of the disputed area.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Hon. Reginald Kelechi Opara stated that approximately 100 hectares of land belonging to Ugakwoche Village were allegedly acquired by the Imo State Government in 2017 during the administration of former Governor Rochas Okorocha and later handed over to the Nigerian Air Force without compensation.
According to Opara, a panel of inquiry reportedly established by the administration of former Governor Emeka Ihedioha later found that due process was not followed in the acquisition and recommended that the land be returned to the community.
The matter was subsequently taken to court in 2019, where it remains unresolved.
However, the community claims that on April 3, 2026, fresh clearing activities began on another section of the disputed land. Residents alleged that four bulldozers were deployed to clear the area, sparking protests and concerns among affected families.
Community leaders further alleged that efforts to seek clarification from government officials yielded no results, while peaceful protests and petitions submitted to relevant authorities reportedly received no response.
Tensions escalated when armed men and security personnel allegedly entered the community, leading to panic among residents. The community claimed that properties were damaged, valuables looted, livestock killed, and several residents harassed during the operation.
The residents also alleged that four youths were arrested and taken into custody at the Tiger Base Police Unit in Owerri. According to community leaders, some of those arrested have remained in detention for weeks.
They further claimed that those in custody have been accused of serious crimes, making efforts to secure their release more difficult.
Community leaders expressed fears that continued encroachment on the disputed land could permanently deprive residents of their ancestral heritage, farming areas, and future residential development.
As of the time of filing this report, the Imo State Government, the Nigerian Air Force, and the Nigeria Police Force had not publicly responded to the allegations.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.
