RULAAC raises alarm over Enugu land dispute, urges Mbah, IGP to prevent further bloodshed

Urgent Petitions to State and Federal Authorities

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has called on the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to urgently intervene in a protracted land dispute in Enugu South Local Government Area. The organization warned that the conflict, involving Private Estate International (West Africa) Limited (PEIWA) and the Amechi Uwani and Obeagu Awkunanaw communities, could degenerate into further bloodshed if left unchecked.

In separate petitions addressed to the Governor and the IGP on Monday, RULAAC expressed grave concern over escalating tensions fuelled by unresolved killings, delayed prosecutions, and fresh access restrictions. The advocacy group specifically highlighted the friction caused by a proposed mandatory registration system for public access through the M-Trans Access Point, also known as the Centenary Gate.

Challenges to Freedom of Movement

RULAAC faulted the introduction of the Venco App, a privately managed digital platform, as a condition for members of the public to use the access point linking the Amechi and Obeagu communities. The organization argued that while private estate managers are entitled to adopt reasonable security measures within their estates, they lack the legal authority to restrict access to what functions as a public road.

The group emphasized that compelling members of the public to register on a private digital platform before exercising their constitutional right to freedom of movement is legally questionable. These restrictions, RULAAC warned, serve only to heighten tensions in an environment already marked by violent attacks and homicide allegations associated with the lingering land conflict.

A History of Unresolved Violence and Killings

The advocacy group cited several instances of violence linked to the dispute, including the December 2021 killing of Inspector Celestine Oriodovwe. The officer, attached to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Enugu Annex, was reportedly investigating petitions related to the land conflict when he was killed. The group also referenced the October 2025 killing of Mr. Onyedika Chukwu Ede during a violent confrontation linked to the dispute.

According to RULAAC, information from affected communities indicates that investigations into these killings have reportedly been concluded and suspects identified, but no prosecution has commenced. The organization stressed that allegations of murder should not be overshadowed by the civil dispute over land ownership, urging law enforcement to ensure criminal accountability.

The continued delay in prosecuting serious homicide cases not only denies justice to victims and their families but also undermines public confidence in the criminal justice system.

— Okechukwu Nwanguma, Executive Director, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC)

Recommendations for Peace and Accountability

The organization urged the Inspector-General of Police to review allegations of abuse in the investigative processes, specifically pointing to claims of forum shopping and undue influence in investigations connected to the disputed land. They called for an independent investigation into these claims to strengthen public confidence in the justice system.

Furthermore, RULAAC appealed to Governor Mbah to order an immediate inquiry into the legal status of the M-Trans Access Point and suspend any attempts by private interests to restrict public access. The group suggested that the state government should convene all relevant stakeholders to facilitate a dialogue aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution.

The warning signs are clear. Government must act now to prevent further violence. Justice for victims, respect for the rule of law, protection of constitutional rights, and peaceful resolution of disputes are essential to preventing another tragic loss of life.

— Okechukwu Nwanguma, Executive Director, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC)

The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability and respect for the Constitution, while urging all parties involved to refrain from violence and allow lawful institutions to resolve the dispute.