Hundreds of women from Mgbara Community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State have taken to the streets to protest the proposed acquisition of community land for an African Development Bank (AfDB) office complex.
The protesters accused a small group of individuals of taking over negotiations surrounding the land without adequate consultation with the wider community. They demanded an open and inclusive process before any further steps are taken on the proposed project.
The women marched through Mmahu-Egbema, the local government headquarters, carrying placards and chanting songs to register their opposition to the project under what they described as the current consultation process. They said the development should not proceed until the community is properly informed and given an opportunity to collectively decide its position.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the protesters, the immediate past Youth President of Mgbara Community, Modrich Ajunwa, said the women had the backing of the wider community. He argued that decisions involving the community’s ancestral land and collective interests should not be made behind closed doors by individuals or a small group.
Ajunwa said the community was not opposed to development but wanted any project involving its land to respect the rights, culture, livelihoods and interests of its people. He noted that many residents depend on farming, meaning the loss of agricultural land could directly affect their means of livelihood.
The community appealed to the AfDB to suspend further engagement or implementation of the proposed project until what it described as genuine, transparent and inclusive consultations are conducted. It also urged the bank not to rely solely on representations from political leaders, traditional authorities or other individuals claiming to speak for the community without evidence of broad-based consent.
According to Ajunwa, the dispute over the proposed project has already created tension and divisions within Mgbara Egbema. He warned that moving ahead without addressing the concerns could worsen the situation and undermine peace and trust within the community.
The protesters said they remain committed to peaceful and lawful dialogue but insisted that the AfDB must listen directly to the people before proceeding. They also appealed for an approach that would prevent further disagreements among community members and ensure that any development project is backed by meaningful community participation.
