Residents of Ugakwoche in Egbule Obube community, located in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, staged a peaceful protest over the acquisition of a large expanse of farmland by the state government, calling for an immediate halt to the process.
The demonstration took place on Wednesday and involved men, women, youths, and elderly members of the community. Participants assembled at their village square before marching to the farmland in question, covering a distance of over two kilometres. The land, which the community estimates to be about 200 hectares, lies along the road leading to the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport.
During the protest, residents dressed in black and carried placards expressing their opposition to the acquisition. Some demonstrators were seen crying and rolling on the ground, actions they said reflected the emotional and economic impact the loss of the land would have on their lives.
Community members stated that the farmland serves as their primary source of livelihood. They said many households depend on it for farming activities and food production. According to those who spoke during the protest, the land is part of their ancestral heritage and represents what they described as the remaining portion available for their use.
Protesters called on the Imo State Government to stop the acquisition and engage with the community. They requested clarity on the purpose of the land and any processes being followed in its acquisition.
The demonstration remained peaceful, and there were no reports of violence or disruption during the march. Participants returned to their community after expressing their grievances at the site.
As of the time of the protest, there was no official statement from the Imo State Government directly addressing the concerns raised by the Ugakwoche community regarding the specific land in question.
The land identified by the protesters is situated along a major route linked to the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, an area considered significant due to its location.
No details were provided during the protest regarding compensation, formal notices, or agreements between the government and the community.
The protest reflects concerns raised by the residents over access to farmland and the impact of the acquisition on their means of livelihood.
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