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Rights Group Petitions IGP, Seeks Probe of Police Role in Controversial Enugu Land Disputes

Published

3 months ago

June 3, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, over alleged abuse of office and misuse of police powers by officers of the Enugu State Police Command in connection with a controversial land dispute involving Ostara Farms Limited and the Okpogho Community in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

In a petition dated May 29, 2026, and signed by its Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC accused the Officer-in-Charge of the Directorate of Legal Services, Enugu State Police Command, and other officers of allegedly interfering in ongoing land litigation, intimidating community members, and using criminal proceedings to influence a dispute that is already before several courts.

According to the organisation, the controversy centres on an agreement through which Ostara Farms Limited allegedly acquired about 2,000 hectares of communal land from individuals said to be acting on behalf of the community for a consideration of N50 million.

RULAAC said a significant number of community members have challenged the transaction, alleging that the agreement was entered into under questionable circumstances and contains terms that unfairly favour the company.

The rights group noted that several lawsuits concerning ownership and control of the disputed land are currently pending before courts in Enugu State, including Suit Nos. A/24/2025, AWH/41/2022, E/299M/2025, A/58/2025, A/59/2025, A/60/2025 and A/61/2025.

Despite the ongoing litigation, RULAAC expressed concern that police authorities have increasingly become involved in the matter through criminal investigations and prosecutions.

The organisation alleged that criminal allegations arising from the burning of a company-owned caterpillar by unidentified persons were being used to target outspoken opponents of the land transaction.

According to the petition, rather than identifying those directly responsible for the incident, the company allegedly supplied names of community leaders and critics of the land deal who were subsequently treated as suspects.

“If true, such actions amount to an abuse of police processes and a dangerous weaponisation of criminal justice mechanisms to suppress dissent, intimidate citizens and gain advantage in a civil dispute,” the organisation stated.

RULAAC further linked the matter to an earlier land dispute involving Obeagu Awkunanaw and Amechi Uwani communities and Private Estates International West Africa Limited (PEIWA), noting that both companies are reportedly associated with businessman Kingsley Tobechukwu Eze.

The organisation recalled that concerns over police involvement in the PEIWA dispute had earlier been brought to the attention of the IGP and referred to the Police Monitoring Unit at Force Headquarters.

It also referenced reports that Kingsley Eze, Chamberlin Mbachu and Private Estates International (W.A.) Limited are facing criminal charges before the Federal High Court, Enugu, relating to the alleged forgery of a survey plan connected with the acquisition of ancestral lands in Enugu.

According to the charge sheet, the defendants were accused in Count I; “That you Kingsley Eze, Chamberlin Mbachu and Private Estates International (W.A.) Limited, sometimes in 2009 or thereabouts, at Amechi Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, did conspire among yourselves to commit a felony to wit: forgery of the Survey Plan titled “Permanent Site of Enugu State University of Science and Technology” of 1985 and thereby committed an offence contrary 3 (6) and punishable under Section 1 (2) (c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”

COUNT II

“That you Kingsley Eze, Chamberlin Mbachu and Private Estates International (W.A.) Limited, sometimes in 2009 or thereabouts, at Amechi Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did make or utter the Survey Plan titled “Permanent Site of Enugu State University of Science and Technology” of 1985 knowing same to be false or with intent that it may in any way be used or acted upon as genuine and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 1 (2) (c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act…”

RULAAC also referred to findings reportedly contained in the Enugu State House of Assembly’s Special Committee Report on Land Matters and Disputes adopted in December 2024.

The organisation urged the IGP to direct the Police Monitoring Unit to immediately take over investigations and prosecutions arising from the Ostara Farms dispute, investigate allegations of misconduct against one CSP Justice Attah, the Officer-in-Charge, Directorate of Legal Services in Enugu, and review any criminal proceedings allegedly initiated for purposes of harassment or intimidation.

Meanwhile, in a separate petition dated May 28, 2026, the organisation called on the IGP to intervene in two criminal cases pending before the Federal High Court, Enugu, over the repeated failure of police authorities to produce defendants for arraignment.

The cases are Charge No. FHC/EN/CR/84/2025, IGP v. Kingsley Eze & 2 Others, and Charge No. FHC/EN/CR/222/2024, IGP v. Alex Ifeadi & 2 Others.

According to RULAAC, the charges were filed following investigations by the Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja, and the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Enugu, indicating that investigations had been completed and prosecution was ready to proceed.

The organisation, however, lamented that despite the filing of the charges, the defendants have repeatedly not been produced before the court for arraignment, resulting in prolonged delays.

RULAAC said the cases came up before the Federal High Court on May 20, 2026, where the court reportedly expressed concern over the inability of the prosecution to present the defendants for plea.

The rights group warned that the continued delays could lead to the cases being struck out for lack of diligent prosecution, thereby undermining public confidence in the criminal justice system.

It urged the IGP to direct the FCID Annex, Enugu, and the FID Abuja, through the Directorate of Legal Services, to ensure the production of the defendants on the next adjourned date of June 18, 2026, and facilitate diligent prosecution of the matters.

RULAAC maintained that its intervention was aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the justice system and ensuring that police powers are exercised impartially and in accordance with the rule of law.

News

Poor Lighting, Sanitation Frustrate Work At First Niger Bridge

Published

3 hours ago

September 15, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

…As Onitsha South Mayor Empowers Workers

By Okey Maduforo, Awka

Maintenance and rehabilitation works at the recently closed First Niger Bridge are being hampered by poor lighting during night shifts and inadequate sanitary facilities at the site.

Recall that before the closure of the bridge, the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, had disclosed that efforts would be made to carry out some of the rehabilitation works at night.

However, some of the workers at the site said poor lighting was affecting effective monitoring of activities on the bridge, while the poor sanitary condition of the area was also posing a threat to their health.

The workers made the complaints during a working visit to the bridge by the Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Chief Emeka Orji.

Orji, who was accompanied by the Secretary of the Local Government, Barr. Paul Onuachalla, and executives of the Fegge Community Landlords/Tenants Welfare Association, led by its Chairman, Chief Nnamdi Onugha, provided cooked meals and packs of bottled water to the personnel and workers at the site.

Speaking after the visit, Orji said the gesture was aimed at supporting the workers and showing solidarity with the Federal Government’s rehabilitation efforts on the bridge.

He said, “To support the workers and give them a sense of belonging, that is why we came to appreciate them. We will continue doing so from time to time as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility.”

The Mayor also disclosed that the council had provided facilities, including mobile toilets and water tanks, while arrangements were being made for water tankers to supply water to the tanks.

Orji further stressed the importance of the military presence in Onitsha South, noting that the personnel would contribute to security, rapid response and protection of the bridge, Onitsha South and parts of Ogbaru Local Government Area.

He added that the council would continue to strengthen its collaboration with security agencies to ensure maximum security across Onitsha South Local Government Area.

Earlier, after inspecting the environment with the Mayor, the Officer in Charge, who pleaded anonymity, identified poor lighting at the bridge at night as one of the major challenges confronting the personnel.

According to him, the situation makes it difficult to effectively monitor activities around the bridge, particularly during night shifts.

He also complained about the poor sanitary condition of the under-bridge environment where the personnel camp, saying they had to clean up the area themselves upon arrival.

The officer further appealed for improved accommodation and food support for the personnel.

He, however, commended the Mayor for the visit and assistance, saying the gesture made the workers feel appreciated.

“We feel loved and appreciated. We are happy seeing you around,” he said.

News

Dangote Reveals He Bought First Private Jet at 22

Published

8 hours ago

September 15, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

Africa’s richest industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has revealed that he bought his first private jet at the age of 22 and a half.
Dangote made the disclosure on Monday in Lagos during the formal launch of the Initial Public Offering (IPO) of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals on the Nigerian Exchange.
Reflecting on his business journey, the billionaire said he had enjoyed travelling by private jet over the years but was now comfortable using commercial flights.
He also urged wealthy Nigerians to channel more of their resources into productive investments rather than luxury assets.
Dangote particularly appealed to affluent Nigerians who spend huge sums on private aircraft to consider investing such wealth in industries and businesses that could contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
“I try as much as I can to encourage people who are riding $900 million aircraft to please go and put that into production. We are not going to be a great nation without doing something productive,” he said.
He stressed that directing private wealth towards productive ventures would help strengthen the economy, create jobs and provide greater opportunities for national development.

News

Niger Delta Chamber Breaks Silence on Alleged Summit Trademark Dispute

Published

19 hours ago

September 14, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

The Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) has rejected claims that it appropriated or “stole” the idea of Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit from another organisation whose application was reportedly pending before the Federal Ministry of Trade.

NDCCITMA considers the allegation misleading and wishes to set the record straight.

The concept of Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit is a broad and widely recognised platform used globally to bring together government, the private sector, investors, businesses, development partners and other stakeholders to deliberate on economic growth and development. The use of the term “Economic Summit” does not, in itself, establish exclusive ownership of the concept by any individual or organisation.

More importantly, the chronology of events does not support the allegation being made against NDCCITMA.

While the said application was reportedly still pending before the Ministry of Trade as at September 2025, NDCCITMA had already gone through the appropriate processes and received approval from the Ministry of Trade in August 2025.

NDCCITMA did not rely on, copy, or appropriate the pending application of any other party in arriving at its name or identity

It is also important to distinguish between a concept and legally protected intellectual property, such as a registered trademark, proprietary material or other enforceable intellectual property right.

NDCCITMA remains committed to conducting its activities in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements.Most importantly, in Suit No: FHC/PHC/CS/57/2026 filed on same subject matter in Portharcourt by the petitioner, the learned Judge had restrained the plaintiff from further interfering with the Summit being planned by the NDCCITMA. NDCCITMA will continue respect the rule of law

We therefore urge the public, stakeholders, the media to disregard any narrative unless such claims are supported by verifiable facts and relevant legal documentation.

NDCCITMA firmly rejects the allegation and maintains that its activities and identity were developed and pursued independently and through the appropriate regulatory channels.

The organisation remains focused on its mandate of promoting commerce, industry, trade, agriculture, investment and sustainable economic development across the Niger Delta region.

Signed:
Management
Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA)

News

Commissioner Dies Suddenly at Abuja Hospital

Published

20 hours ago

September 14, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

The Cross River State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams Abang, has died at a hospital in Abuja.
Williams reportedly died suddenly on Saturday, September 12, 2026, while receiving medical treatment.
His death was announced on Sunday by his brother, Nkang William, who expressed shock over the sudden loss.
The deceased was described by family members and associates as a dedicated public servant whose death had left a significant void.
A former councillor representing Abo Ward in Boki Local Government Area, Pius Kejuo Osang, said he was still struggling to understand the development.

Late Abang

“I don’t understand, I was with him on Tuesday, I slept in his hotel,” Osang said.
Michael Gabriel Jr., Executive Media Assistant to Senator John Owan-Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, also described Williams as “a dedicated public servant and a good man.”
He said Ikom Local Government Area had lost a committed public servant, adding that Williams’ life of service, humility and impact would remain in the memories of those he touched.
The commissioner’s death has thrown Cross River’s political and public service circles into mourning, with condolences pouring in for his family, colleagues and associates.

News

Niger Delta Chambers Unveils Plan to Transform Region Into Investment Hub

Published

20 hours ago

September 14, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

The Board Chairman of the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture, NDCCITMA, Ambassador Idaere Ogan, has identified the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, and the governments of the nine Niger Delta states as development partners in building a sustainable regional investment ecosystem.

Addressing newsmen at the Obi Wali Cultural Centre in Port Harcourt, Ogan reaffirmed NDCCITMA’s commitment to successfully hosting the Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit from September 15 to 17 in the Rivers State capital.

The NDCCITMA Chairman said the Summit was a strategic, private-sector-led platform to mobilise investment and unlock the Niger Delta region’s economic potential, anchored on the theme: “Driving Investment, Innovation and Industrial Growth in the Niger Delta.”

He stated: “Our vision is to bring together the nine Niger Delta states, the Federal Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission, organised private sector, domestic and international investors, development finance institutions, multilateral organisations, financial institutions, project developers and other strategic partners around a common objective: To transform the Niger Delta from a predominantly resource-dependent economy into a diversified, productive, industrialised and globally competitive regional economy.”

According to Ogan, the Summit was designed not merely as another conference, but as an investment and transaction platform, stating: “I dare say that the region possesses opportunities far beyond crude oil.

“From gas and petrochemicals to agriculture and agro-processing; maritime and blue economy; manufacturing; aviation and transportation; renewable energy; tourism; digital economy; logistics; infrastructure and financial services, the Niger Delta possesses the resources and market opportunities required to become one of Africa’s leading investment destinations.”

We intend to showcase strategic investment opportunities capable of transforming the regional economy, including agro-industrial and oil-palm value chains, gas utilisation and gas-based industries, regional transportation and aviation, maritime infrastructure, industrial and logistics hubs, renewable energy, manufacturing, skills development, digital infrastructure and other high-impact projects.

The Counsel to the Legal Representative of NDCCITMA, Mr Sammie Somiari, SAN, affirmed that the Summit organiser was committed to conducting its activities in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements.

He noted that in a suit filed by the founder of NDEIS, Kenule Nwiya Jnr, over an alleged trademark infringement, the court restrained the plaintiff from further interfering with the Summit being planned by the NDCCITMA.

Somiari assured that the Summit would proceed as planned, as there was no legal encumbrance to the economic and investment platform.

Also speaking, the NDDC Director of Commercial and Industrial Development, Mrs Lyna Okara, observed that the Summit would promote stronger economic integration among the nine Niger Delta states.

She noted that the investment forum would produce tangible outcomes: investment commitments, project partnerships, financing opportunities, policy recommendations, and clearly defined implementation frameworks.

Seledi Thompson-Wakama

Director, Corporate Affairs

September 12, 2026