Abia Women Demand Government Action Over Detentions, Deepening Community Land Dispute

A group of women from the Amanato Eziama Nneato community in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State on Tuesday took their grievances to the Government House in Umuahia, urging Governor Alex Otti to step into a worsening land conflict involving their neighbours, the Umuacha Umuobi community.

The demonstrators, representing the women’s arm of Amalato Ukwu, described a troubling situation marked by ongoing arrests and fear among residents. According to them, the dispute—currently being handled at the Court of Appeal—has led to security crackdowns that have affected families, forcing some to flee their homes.

Speaking during the protest, a representative of the group, Ezinne Chief Chidi Okoro, accused opposing parties of encroaching on their farmland, destroying crops, and instigating arrests of community members. She claimed several detainees have been held for extended periods without access to relatives or the opportunity for bail.

Another speaker, Janet Nwankwo, linked the disagreement to a long-standing settlement arrangement between both communities. She alleged that what began as a gesture of hospitality by their ancestors has now evolved into a prolonged territorial dispute.

She added that the crisis has disrupted daily life, making it difficult for residents to farm or access essential resources like water. Many, she said, now live in hiding to avoid arrest, while others remain in detention.

The women also called for the release of individuals they said were still in custody, noting that their community leader had only recently regained freedom after weeks of detention.

In response, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, acknowledged their concerns and assured them that the government would review the matter. He encouraged the group to submit a formal report to assist the authorities in addressing the issue effectively.

Similarly, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Political Affairs, Acho Obioma, emphasized the administration’s commitment to fairness and peaceful coexistence. He urged the women to remain calm while the government engages all parties involved.

Authorities stated that a comprehensive review would be conducted, including hearing from the opposing community, with the aim of finding a lasting and peaceful resolution.

The protest underscores rising tensions in the area, as affected residents continue to seek urgent intervention to restore stability and prevent further conflict.