Land grabbing allegations rock Imo as RULAAC petitions Gov. Uzodinma over demolitions

Stanley Ihedigbo

Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned Hope Uzodinma over what it described as a disturbing pattern of land grabbing, unlawful demolitions, and abuse of power by government officials in Imo State.

In a letter addressed to the governor, RULAAC’s Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, called for urgent intervention to halt what he termed “arbitrary and unjustifiable” actions affecting property owners, particularly in Avu, Owerri.

The petition centres on the case of Mr. Sampson Okwudire Inyama, who reportedly acquired a parcel of land in Avu many years ago through due process, with the assistance of the late Chief Magistrate V. V. M. Njoku. According to the letter, all necessary procedures were followed, including compensation to local landowners and proper documentation of the transaction.

RULAAC stated that Inyama took lawful possession of the land, secured it with fencing and a gate, only for individuals allegedly acting on behalf of the Imo State Government to later invade the property and demolish his structures without prior notice or explanation.

Following the initial demolition, Inyama reportedly engaged legal counsel to investigate the incident. Findings, according to the petition, pointed to the involvement of the Imo State Housing Authority.

Subsequent interactions with officials allegedly led to financial demands, which were met, after which he was advised to resume possession and development of the property.

However, the situation reportedly escalated earlier this year when another demolition exercise was carried out, again without formal notice. While the building on the land was spared at the time, the fence and surrounding structures were destroyed. Authorities reportedly justified the action by citing security concerns and urging landowners to develop their properties to deter criminal activities.

Acting on this directive, Inyama resumed development of the land. But in what RULAAC described as a “shocking and unjustifiable turn of events,” all structures on the property, including buildings belonging to neighbouring landowners, were recently demolished without notice, consultation, or compensation.

The rights group raised several critical questions, including why demolitions were carried out without adequate notice, why government agencies would approve developments and collect payments only to later destroy them, and why there appeared to be no lawful acquisition process or compensation for affected property owners.

It further questioned whether such actions constituted violations of constitutional rights, particularly the right to property and due process.

The petition also referenced allegations implicating certain individuals, including one identified as Chinasa, suggesting possible links to a broader pattern of land grabbing involving persons allegedly connected to Government House.

RULAAC noted that if proven, such actions would represent a serious abuse of power and a breach of public trust.
While emphasising that the allegations require a thorough investigation, the organisation warned that the situation reflects a growing concern over governance, transparency, and accountability in the state.

RULAAC therefore called on Governor Uzodinma to order an immediate and independent investigation into the demolitions, identify and sanction any officials found culpable, and halt further interference with the affected properties.

The group also urged the government to ensure prompt and adequate compensation for victims and to reaffirm its commitment to the rule of law and protection of citizens’ rights.

According to Nwanguma, the matter extends beyond an individual grievance and has wider implications for property rights, investor confidence, and public trust in governance in Imo State.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Imo State Government regarding the allegations.