Indigenes of Umuchima autonomous community in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have accused the Minister of Works and former governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi, of forcefully evicting residents and allegedly seizing approximately 300 hectares of ancestral land.
The community made the allegations in a petition titled “Death Tolls Resulting from Dehumanizing Actions of Senator Umahi Against His Own Kinsmen.” The petition was signed by Celestine Uzo, Publicity Secretary of the United Umuchima Community General Assembly.
Alleged Land Seizure and Evictions in Umuchima
According to the petitioners, the dispute began shortly after Umahi assumed office as governor in 2015 and has continued into his tenure as Minister of Works.
The community claims that:
- Ancestral homes, farmlands, and sacred sites were demolished.
- The land was initially acquired under the pretext of government projects.
- Portions of the land were later allegedly handed over to the minister’s relatives.
Residents have appealed to both the Federal Government and the Ebonyi State Government to intervene and return the land to its original owners.
Claims of Trauma and Intimidation
Members of the Umuchima community allege that the demolitions caused severe emotional trauma, particularly among widows and elderly residents. They also claim that some individuals suffered health complications following the destruction of their homes and burial sites.
The petition further alleges:
- Intimidation and harassment by individuals described as agents of the minister
- Night-time raids and property vandalism
- Attacks or abductions of some youths during the crisis
Community leaders say the situation has created fear and uncertainty, with residents unsure whose homes could be affected next.
Call for Government and Human Rights Investigation
The petitioners have called on human rights organisations and relevant authorities to:
- Investigate the allegations
- Verify any government-approved projects in the area
- Determine the actual land requirements for such developments
“Let the public hear our cry; and let the State and Federal Governments come to our rescue,” the petition stated.
Umahi’s Aide Dismisses Allegations
In response, Umahi’s Special Adviser on Media, Uchenna Orji, dismissed the accusations as false and lacking legal or cultural foundation.
He described the claims as fabricated and politically motivated, insisting that the minister has significantly contributed to development in Uburu and Ebonyi State.
Orji urged the public to disregard the allegations, stating that the minister would not be distracted by what he termed attempts to tarnish his image.
Growing Tensions in Ebonyi Land Dispute
The dispute highlights increasing tensions within the Umuchima community over land ownership and alleged forced evictions. While residents continue to demand intervention and restitution, the minister’s camp maintains that the claims are unfounded.
As of the time of this report, no official investigation has been announced by federal or state authorities.
