HURIWA backs property rights probe in Enugu

Prominent civil Rights Advocacy group, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has applauded the National Human Rights Commission for investigating alleged violations of property rights at Amechi Uwani and Obeagu Awkunanaw communities of Enugu State.

The National Coordinator of the group , Emmanuel Onwubiko, confirmed in a statement that the group received a letter of invitation to appear on September 5 before the National Human Rights Commission as a response to the petition from the affected communities in Enugu, which was transmitted to the commission by HURIWA through a letter dated May 15, 2024.

HURIWA has, however, written the Executive Secretary of the Commission Sir Tony Ojukwu (SAN), requesting a short adjournment of the scheduled hearing of September 5, to a date after the next couple of weeks to enable representatives of the affected communities to physically attend the investigative hearing by the Commission of their complaints against the Land registration and housing agencies in Enugu state.

Onwubiko noted that Amechi Uwani and Obeagu Awkunanaw communities in Enugu State have been besieged by an alleged disturbing wave of violence, marked by numerous assassinations and senseless killings, which the community concerned will on their own present their evidence.

According to him, Petition No. 59 of 2023, submitted by concerned kindred families, provided detailed and distressing accounts of these alleged heinous acts.
He said: “The tragic murder of Inspector Celestine Oriodovwe in 2022, serves as a stark reminder of the grave security challenges facing the region. It is imperative that urgent and decisive action be taken to investigate these crimes, apprehend the perpetrators, and restore peace and security to the affected communities.

“Furthermore, the ongoing land dispute, particularly the contentious demolition of over 200 buildings in the Centenary City, has exacerbated tensions and raised profound questions about the government’s adherence to due process and respect for property rights.

“HURIWA’s comprehensive investigation into the matter has revealed troubling irregularities in the land acquisition process, including inadequate compensation for affected communities and questionable legal manoeuvres.

“It is essential that transparency, accountability, and the rule of law prevail in resolving this highly contentious issue to prevent further escalation of conflicts and ensure justice for all stakeholders involved,” he said.

HURIWA recalled that it had earlier in the year tabled similar petition at a public hearing before the federal House of Representatives in which it argued as follows: “Esteemed members of the House Committee on Public Petitions, I present to you critical revelations regarding the ongoing land dispute in Enugu State, shedding light on the government’s questionable actions and advocating for justice on behalf of the affected communities.”

The group traced the genesis of the land dispute in Enugu back to the late 1970s when Sen. Dr. Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, then Governor of the Old Anambra State, proposed the establishment of a university in Amechi Awkunanaw.
However, political circumstances hindered this noble initiative, leading to subsequent disputes over land ownership.

“In our advocacy efforts, HURIWA had challenged the government’s narrative regarding the demolition of over 200 buildings in the Centenary City, refuting claims of inadequate approval and security concerns. Instead, we offer a deeper perspective based on historical claims of the affected communities.

“Our investigation has uncovered discrepancies in the government’s attempt to legitimise the land acquisition, including doubts about the authenticity of Gazette No. 12 dated March 27, 1986, and major defects in the Certificate of Occupancy.

“Despite legal provisions of Sections 44 of the Land Use Act, mandating compensation for land acquisition, the lack of compensation for affected communities raises serious concerns about the government’s prioritisation of private commercial interests over public welfare.

“The revelation of a consent judgement between Private Estates International West Africa Limited and the government has further dismayed the affected communities, leading to legal battles now pending before the Enugu State High Court.

“Furthermore, we urge this esteemed committee to consider the broader implications of the human rights violations and land dispute in Enugu State. Beyond the immediate concerns of security and property rights, these issues strike at the heart of democracy, governance, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

“Failure to address these injustices not only perpetuates suffering among affected communities but also undermines the very foundations of our society.

“It is incumbent upon all stakeholders, including the government, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, and the international community, to work together to ensure accountability, transparency, and justice prevail.

“By upholding the principles of human rights and the rule of law, we can forge a path toward a more just, equitable, and peaceful society for all Nigerians,” the group noted.

The rights group therefore implored the committee to heed our urgent appeal and take decisive action to address the egregious human rights violations and the contentious land dispute in Enugu State.

It also called on the committee to exercise its constitutional mandate with diligence, integrity, and a firm commitment to upholding the rule of law.

“The people of Amechi Uwani, Obeagu Awkunanaw, and all affected communities deserve swift and impartial justice, security, and respect for their fundamental rights.

“Our singular prayer is for an end to these injustices and for suspects to be brought before the court of law for lawful prosecution and sanction.

“HURIWA remains steadfast in its resolve to work collaboratively with the committee to achieve meaningful and sustainable solutions to these pressing human rights challenges,” the group added.