The Youth Wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, has voiced strong protests against the recent demolition of a valuable property worth N11 billion belonging to Ukachukwu Brothers and Praco International Limited by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) in Abuja.
Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, the Acting National President of the influential Igbo group, addressed journalists and stated that the land in question was legitimately acquired back in the 1990s, with a clear history and documentation confirming its legal status.
According to Okpalaezeukwu, the group’s attention was drawn to the disturbing incident that took place in the Asokoro Extension area of Abuja, where agents of the FCDA, acting on orders from the Honorable Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, forcibly demolished properties belonging to the Ukachukwu family and their firm in a manner described as resembling the tactics of the Gestapo secret police.
The Acting President asserted that the group has examined all relevant documents, including acquisition papers, court judgments, orders, and evidence of ministerial approvals for the restoration of titles, which clearly validate the legitimate ownership of the land.
Okpalaezeukwu expressed dismay that this unlawful and hateful act was carried out without adhering to the rule of law or obtaining a valid court judgment, despite the land being validly acquired in the 1990s and possessing a clear history of legitimacy.
He refuted claims made by the FCDA that the land was allocated erroneously to Praco International Limited and the Ukachukwu family, reminding the FCT Authorities that Nigeria is governed by laws and urging them to desist from any actions detrimental to the peace, unity, and progress of the country.
Consequently, the Youth Wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has called upon the FCTA to issue an unreserved apology to the Ukachukwu Brothers for labeling them as land grabbers. Additionally, they have demanded adequate monetary compensation for the malicious and unwarranted demolition of properties and an immediate cessation of any further unlawful encroachment on the said property.
Okpalaezeukwu warned that if the authorities failed to meet these demands, the group would be left with no choice but to seek redress through active struggle and protest actions.