The Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti has reiterated his administration commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence among communities within Abia and its neighboring states.
Represented by his Deputy Engr. Ikechukwu Emeru in a boundary meeting held at the Government House conference hall in Umuahia on Wednesday, Otti addressed a land dispute between the Amaba Ubibia and Ndiwo communities in Itumbauzo, Bende Local Government Area.
The discussion, which centered on land ownership, was previously settled by a Supreme Court ruling in favor of Amaba. While Ndiwo accepted the verdict, tensions arose over individual land claims, particularly those of the late Mr. Paul Udonja, whose 12 plots are now inherited by his son, Mr. Chukwuma Paul.
The Deputy Governor who chairs the State Boundary Council, clarified that there is no ongoing dispute between the two communities, as the Supreme Court’s judgment confirmed Amaba’s ownership.
“The current issue involves Mr. Chukwuma Paul’s claim to two acres of land originally purchased by his father from the Amaba community. Emetu assured that the council would map out the boundaries and restore Mr. Paul’s land to him, emphasizing an amicable resolution.
“From our findings, the only issue is between Mr. Paul and the community, which will be resolved peacefully,” Emetu stated. “The 12 plots belonging to the late Mr. Paul Udonja will be restored to his son, Mr. Chukwuma Paul.”
Barr. I. B. Uwon, counsel for Amaba, presented the court judgments, while Mr. Chukwuma Paul submitted documentation proving his father’s purchase and recounted a near-fatal encounter with some Amaba community members. He expressed confidence in the council’s ability to resolve the matter fairly.
Barr. Chijioke Nwankwo, Deputy Chief of Staff, and the Mayor of Bende LGA, Chief Bassey, both called for peace and optimism for a swift resolution. Emetu reiterated the council’s mandate to promote harmony, particularly among sister communities, as the state addresses broader boundary issues with seven neighboring states.