AfriPulse
The women of Umuariaga community in Ikwuano local government area of Abia State have alleged that the State government is planning to use their farm land for a smart city housing estate, without their knowledge and consent.
The women, who came to the Abia State Government House, Umuahia, in protest, said that the proposed take over of their land would cause hunger in their families as there would be no place for them to cultivate their crops.
The leader of the protesters, Mrs Glory Orji, who spoke on behalf of others, alleged that some individuals who claimed to be agents of Abia State government have been telling Umuariaga people that the flat lands in the community have been earmarked for a proposed government housing estate.
She lamented that the news about the unauthorized takeover of the lands had created tension in the entire Umuariaga community.
The women, who demanded clarification from the Abia State government on the project, said it would douse the tension in their villages.
“This is the only flat land we have. If they collect it from us, what will remain for our children?
“If they collect it from us, where are we going to farm and where are we going to feed our families from?” Mrs Orji asked.
The women, who were singing and raising their placards, also lamented that relevant government agencies have not done enough to stop the persistent destruction of their crops by cattle belonging to herdsmen.
They further appealed to Governor Alex Otti to protect indigenous land owners from being stripped of their lands without their consent.
Addressing the women on behalf of the State government, Abia State Commissioner for Finance, Uwaoma Ukandu promised to inform Governor Otti about their complaints.
Ukandu, who appealed to the women to remain peaceful, assured them that the issues they raised would be investigated and addressed.
Source: Daily Post Nigeria | Read the Full Story…
