A disturbing land dispute in Abia State, Nigeria, has taken a violent turn, with an 82-year-old former Education Secretary, Onukwuo Joseph Onuegbu, appealing for protection from the authorities. Onuegbu claims that members of the Ogbuti family have been threatening his life and physically attacking him over a parcel of land he inherited from his late father in 1957.
The land in question, known as Ebeh, has been a source of contention between Onuegbu and the Ogbuti family. According to Onuegbu, the family violently chased him and his daughter, Christiana, away from the land in March 2025. He also alleged that the family inflicted injuries on him during a recent arbitration panel meeting, dislocating his left shoulder and causing a significant head injury. An 80-year-old man, Iroanya Onukwuo, was also beaten to stupor, Onuegbu claimed.
Onuegbu expressed his fear for his life, stating that he is still recovering from the injuries he suffered. He has appealed to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 9 Umuahia, and the Abia State government to intervene in the matter and protect him from further harm. Onuegbu had initially reported the incident to the Bende Division of the Nigerian Police Force, but he claimed that the report was mishandled, prompting him to seek arbitration.
However, Mr. Ogbuti Chukwuemeka, responding on behalf of the Ogbuti family, denied the allegations, stating that nobody beat or threatened Onuegbu. Chukwuemeka claimed that Onuegbu is the one encroaching on their land, which they have been operating for over 40 years. The dispute highlights the complexities and challenges of land ownership and conflict resolution in Nigeria, where the rule of law is often tested by traditional and cultural practices.
The situation is a concern for human rights and the safety of elderly citizens, who are often vulnerable to exploitation and violence. The Abia State government and the Nigerian Police Force must take immediate action to investigate the allegations and provide protection to Onuegbu and his family. The use of violence to resolve land disputes is unacceptable and undermines the rule of law, and those responsible must be held accountable. As the situation unfolds, it is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of all parties involved and to seek a peaceful resolution to the dispute.
