Anambra Community Cries Out Over Alleged Destruction of Forest Reserve Crops by Government Officials

A growing crisis has gripped Ndiukwuenu, a community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, following allegations that government officials have destroyed farmlands, economic trees, and crops in the Mamu Forest Reserve to pave the way for a housing project.

The affected residents recently staged a protest at the Government House in Awka, appealing to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intervene in the dispute. A visit to the area revealed extensive damage, including the destruction of over 500 palm trees, several designer trees, and expansive cassava farms.

Geoffrey Ezechukwu Okoli, President General of the Ndiukwuenu Community, alleged that powerful individuals in collaboration with government officials and non-indigenes were behind the actions, stripping the community of its primary means of livelihood. He claimed that the destroyed palm trees and other assets had been acquired with significant investments from the state government.

Okoli stated, “Our people are not happy with the grave injustice being done to us by agents of the government who have forcefully taken over our land and handed it over to certain individuals within and outside the Ozzu community in Ndiukwuenu. This singular action has disrupted the peace in our community.”

The situation, he explained, escalated after the de-reservation of the forest and the release of 20% compensatory plots by the government, which he said turned the once peaceful Ozzu Ndiukwuenu community into a hotspot of conflict. Okoli also raised concerns about the reserve becoming a security threat due to its current state.

He called on Governor Soludo to take immediate action by halting further destruction of the forest reserve, setting up a panel of inquiry to investigate the matter, engaging with local stakeholders, and prosecuting those responsible for the crisis.

Responding to the concerns, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, Political Adviser to Governor Soludo, assured the community that their grievances would be addressed. He emphasized the governor’s commitment to justice and pledged that the administration would work toward a fair resolution.

“We know you want to protect your God-given asset. The governor, as you know, does not condone illegality and will look into this matter dispassionately to find a lasting solution,” Obiogbolu said. He also urged the Ndiukwuenu community to ensure their area does not become a haven for criminal elements, as the government remains firm against banditry and related activities.