The Akwa Ibom State Government, through the Ministry of Lands and Town Planning, is working to end a long-standing land dispute. This conflict involves the Mbak people, six host communities, Ibom Mortgage Bank, Citadel Value Homes, and other parties in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.
The ministry asked everyone involved to talk things over and avoid actions that might disturb the peace in the area.
A meeting with returnee farm dwellers from the communities took place at the ministry’s conference room in Uyo on 2 September. The press statement from the ministry shared details about this meeting.
The meeting was led by the Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, Ubong Inyang. Representatives from the Mbak community and other host communities, including Mbiokporo, Afia Nsit, Mbak Nsit, Ikot Ntuen Nsit, Afaha Nsit, and Nduo Ebuo, attended. Also present were members from Ibom Mortgage Bank and other important stakeholders.
Commissioner Inyang stated that the state government is dedicated to finding a solution that everyone can agree on. He pointed out that development can only happen when there is peace and understanding among the parties involved.
He urged everyone to embrace peace and work with the government to settle their differences. He promised potential developers that the government would ensure a clear process that protects their interests while making sure the affected communities get fair compensation.
He also warned Citadel Value Homes and other allottees to follow the right government procedures. They should not make payments or sign agreements outside the approved framework, as this could lead to more disputes.
Inyang added that the ministry would offer necessary records and support if the issue goes to court. He encouraged everyone to try and settle things amicably.
The commissioner stressed that cooperation among all parties is key to resolving the dispute and promoting development.
Dominic Okon, a lawyer speaking for the Mbak community, praised the commissioner for starting this engagement. He said it is a big step toward addressing the community’s worries about land encroachment.
He pointed out some legal challenges faced by community members in protecting their rights. Okon called for a careful look at documents and evidence from all sides to determine the facts of the dispute.
Eric Akpan, the member representing Nsit Ibom State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, urged for ongoing dialogue among the government, affected communities, and allottees. He noted that the long process of land acquisition has made the issue very sensitive.
He warned against arrests and confrontations that could increase tensions. Akpan encouraged stakeholders to understand each other's views and work towards a solution that ensures peace and development.
He also highlighted the need to keep affected communities informed with relevant government documents and evidence.
B.M. Yakubu, a captain from the Headquarters 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Mbiokporo, Nsit Ibom, raised concerns for six families still living in the military cantonment. He said past efforts to relocate them have failed because they have no alternative housing.
Mr. Yakubu asked the government for help in providing suitable temporary or alternative accommodation. He emphasized the need to treat the relocation humanely, considering the hardship faced by these families.
Edward Akpan, a representative of Citadel Value Homes, thanked the Ministry of Lands and Town Planning for bringing everyone together. He assured the state government that the company is ready to work with the authorities and other stakeholders to resolve the dispute.
Offiong Etim, from the Office of the Akwa Ibom State Surveyor-General, explained the history, boundaries, and portions of the land taken from the affected communities.
He also talked about past efforts by government survey officials to set boundaries and help with development. He mentioned challenges like the destruction of boundary stones, encroachment, and issues faced during surveying work.
The meeting included a session where stakeholders asked questions, clarified issues, and made more suggestions to resolve the dispute and encourage peaceful living among the affected communities, government, Ibom Mortgage Bank, Citadel Value Homes, and others.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇