By Zika Booby
A contentious land dispute between Ishinkwo and Abaomege communities in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State has taken a worrying turn. The demarcation process, initiated by the Ebonyi State government to resolve the 127-year-old conflict, has been marred by allegations of bias and influence peddling.
According to Ishinkwo community leaders, the demarcation team has deviated from the provisions of the survey map and the white paper, sparking fears of unfair treatment.
The local government chairman, Ikechukwu Ogbofia, has been accused of influencing the process in favour of Abaomege, with reports suggesting that he has been present at the demarcation site daily.
The Ishinkwo community has expressed outrage over the allocation of Efiom village, which has never been part of the disputed areas, to Abaomege, as the Idumayo swamp land and other areas, which were supposed to be shared between the two communities, have been awarded to Abaomege.
Community leaders have called on the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, to intervene and ensure that the demarcation process is fair and transparent.
The dispute has sparked protests and tensions between the two communities, highlighting the need for a peaceful and equitable resolution.
The Ebonyi State Government had initiated the demarcation process as part of efforts to resolve the long-standing conflict between the two communities.
However, the latest developments have raised concerns about the government’s commitment to fairness and justice.