3 Odekpe indigenes kidnapped over land dispute – Union



Odekpe Development Union (ODU) Lokoja branch has condemned the land dispute between Odekpe and Allah/Onugwa communities in Anambra West local government council of Anambra state which reportedly led to the disappearance of three persons in Odekpe community.

The spokesperson of the  union, Mr Thomas Okebu, in a press statement issued  Sunday  in Lokoja, alleged that three of their persons had been kidnapped by people of Allah/Onugwa communities few days back.

The  statement said  the disputed land originally belonged to Odekpe but that the people of Allah/Onugwa came to settle with Odekpe.

However, at a time when Allah/Onugwa expanded, they claimed they owned some portion of the land, but Odekpe people disagreed with them. 

“They refused and wanted to claim the entire land, including where we are living. This time now because of the notable people they have in government, including in the police and military, they are boasting that they have money and connection.

“The Igwe of our area, Igwe Pious Omachulu intervened in the matter through the office of the deputy governor. He is the Secretary of the Traditional Rulers Council in Anambra state. Because his own community is closer to our community, they now said since he knows the place very well, he should handle the matter and report back to the government.

“He now urged everybody to stay calm and that he will involve the two communities on how the matter can be settled amicably. He also warned that the two communities should steer clear of the disputed land until the matter is settled.

“Allah/Onugwa community started going there for farming. They started to plant crops in the land and our community confronted them for going to the land. We reported to Igwe, but he did not react on time and anytime they are coming to the land, they will be well armed and then lay siege for our people.

“This time, when our people confronted them, crisis started and three persons from our community were kidnapped. When people went there to look for our people they kidnapped we couldn’t find them. But information reaching us said they have killed our people,” the statement added.



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