Tension Grips Omalima Layout Amid Protests Over Alleged Violent Land Grabbing

By Karen James

Palpable fear and tension have engulfed Omalima Layout in Oze, Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, following a disturbing case of alleged violent land grabbing and intimidation of residents.

Reports from the community indicate that the crisis is allegedly being encouraged by individuals purportedly linked to government offices. Eyewitnesses and affected property owners claimed that a group of men stormed the area, forcefully laying claim to several plots of land belonging to lawful owners and tenants.
The development has triggered widespread fear, confusion, and deep emotional distress among residents.
According to multiple accounts, the men reportedly identified themselves as representatives of the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security.
Community members alleged that those involved included Hon. Chiejina Obieze, Sunday Ogaazi, Izuu (popularly known as “One Man 30”), and Chukwuma Okpolaezeukwu, said to be a Special Senior Assistant to the Security Adviser and a youth leader of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo an organization expected to protect lives and property.
Residents stated that the group claimed to be acting on government orders, a claim the community has strongly disputed and described as false and misleading.
Community leaders accused the alleged perpetrators of trespassing, intimidation, and unlawful demolition of property under the guise of official authority.
One affected landowner, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed shock and anguish over the incident.
“Why would anyone use the name of the government to intimidate innocent citizens in this state? They told us they were sent by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security at the old Government House to take over our land. Even properties belonging to All Saints Anglican Church were demolished,” the source lamented.
Residents further alleged that a woman lost her life during the chaos while attempting to defend her property. Others were reportedly threatened to pay money or face demolition claims that have intensified public outrage, grief, and calls for justice.
The human toll of the incident has been particularly heartbreaking, especially the case of a widow, Mrs. Amaka Ezechukwu, which has drawn widespread sympathy within and beyond the community.
Her newly completed six-room apartment, including a parlour and security house said to be the only property left by her late husband was allegedly demolished.
Weeping openly and pleading for justice, Mrs. Ezechukwu and other affected residents called on Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to intervene urgently halt what they described as unchecked abuse of power.
According to the community, the disputed land was legally purchased from recognized landowners in Oyi, and all relevant documentation remains intact and verifiable.
As of press time, no official statement has been issued by the Anambra State Government or the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security.
Meanwhile, community leaders, church representatives, and civil rights advocates continue to appeal for a swift investigation, accountability for those involved, and the immediate restoration of peace and order in Omalima Layout.