The Anti-Land Grabbing Committee of Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State, has defended its activities amid allegations of land grabbing against the council chairman, Hon. Chima Boniface Njoku, and the committee’s chairman, High Chief Emma Nwaobilor.
In a statement issued in response to allegations attributed to Chetam Nwala circulating on social media, the committee urged the public to examine the issues based on verifiable facts, evidence and due process rather than relying on unverified claims.
The committee maintained that efforts to address land-related disputes in Etche should be assessed fairly, noting that alleged unlawful acquisition of ancestral lands, intimidation and protracted disputes had posed challenges to communities in the area.
It argued that the fight against land grabbing was aimed at protecting ancestral heritage, restoring peace and safeguarding the rights of legitimate landowners.
The committee also called on critics to engage its leadership or the Etche Local Government Council to seek clarification, provide evidence of alleged wrongdoing and offer constructive recommendations.
While acknowledging the importance of criticism, it stressed that such interventions should be guided by facts, fairness and a commitment to resolving disputes.
On the legal aspects of land disputes, the committee expressed concern over allegations that some individuals might be presenting questionable or fabricated court judgments or relying on court orders in ways that could complicate the resolution of disputes.
It called for the verification of relevant court documents and urged authorities to investigate any suspected irregularities through appropriate legal channels.
