The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, over what it described as repeated незакон demolitions of a property belonging to a resident, raising concerns about abuse of power and land grabbing.
In a letter dated April 1, the group said a property owned by Sampson Okwudire Inyama had been demolished three times under different circumstances without prior notice, consultation, or compensation.
According to the petition, the land located in Avu was lawfully acquired years ago, with all necessary documentation and compensation to original landowners completed. However, individuals allegedly acting on behalf of the Imo State Government reportedly demolished structures on the property without explanation.
Investigations later linked the initial demolition to the Imo State Housing Authority, with officials allegedly demanding payments and advising the owner to rebuild in order to assert possession. The property owner reportedly complied by reconstructing the fence and beginning development.
RULAAC said a second demolition occurred in February 2026, during which the fence was destroyed again, while the main building was spared. Authorities reportedly justified the action on security grounds, urging property owners to develop their land to prevent criminal activity.
However, the situation escalated when bulldozers returned for a third time, demolishing all structures on the property—including buildings and those belonging to neighbouring owners—without warning.
The civil society group expressed concern over allegations that an individual identified as Chinasa may be linked to the demolitions in an attempt to seize the land for personal gain, possibly with connections to government officials.
In the petition signed by its Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, the organisation described the incident as part of a broader pattern threatening property rights and public trust in governance.
“This case is not just an individual grievance it reflects a disturbing pattern that threatens public trust in governance and the rule of law,” the letter stated.
RULAAC called on the governor to order an independent investigation, hold any culpable officials accountable, halt further interference with the property, and ensure compensation for affected victims.
The group warned that such actions, if left unchecked, could undermine investor confidence and erode citizens’ faith in the government’s commitment to justice and due process.
