By George Ozalla
Tension has gripped Omalima Layout in Oze Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, following allegations of land theft involving individuals said to be linked to top government offices.
Eyewitnesses and affected property owners alleged that a group of men claiming to represent the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, under the AVM Department, stormed several plots of land in the community, demolishing structures and dispossessing legitimate owners.
Those allegedly involved in the invasion were identified as Sunday Ogaazi, Izuu (popularly known as “One Man 30”), Chukwuma Okpolaezeukwu, and Ben Chiobi, all said to be operating under the AVM Department. The group reportedly claimed they were acting on the directives of the state government, a claim that has since been met with outrage by residents who accused them of intimidation and abuse of authority.
One of the affected landowners, who pleaded anonymity, recounted the shocking incident, saying, “Why should some people use the name of government to intimidate others in this state? They said they were sent from the AVM office in the old government house to take over our land. Even properties belonging to All Saints Anglican Church were demolished.”
The development has sparked widespread condemnation, with community members calling on Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to intervene and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Residents maintain that the lands in question were legally acquired from recognized owners in Oyi, with all relevant documents intact. They are demanding an immediate investigation into the alleged illegal takeover and restitution for those affected.
Community leaders, church representatives, and civil rights advocates have also appealed to the Governor to personally wade into the matter to prevent further unrest and safeguard the integrity of his administration.
As of press time, the Anambra State Government and the AVM Department had yet to issue any official response to the allegations.
