Women from Umuariaga community in Abia State’s Ikwuano Local Government Area have voiced strong opposition to what they claim is a secret government plan to convert their agricultural land into a smart city housing estate. The protesters marched to the Government House in Umuahia, demanding transparency and the protection of their livelihoods.
Led by Mrs. Glory Orji, the women expressed alarm that individuals posing as government agents have been informing locals that the community’s flat lands have been designated for a government housing initiative. They stressed that such a move would devastate their ability to grow food and sustain their families.
“This is the only flat land we have. If they take it away, what will remain for our children? Where will we farm? How will we feed our families?” Orji questioned, highlighting the dire consequences of losing their farmland.
The protest also drew attention to ongoing grievances about cattle encroachment. The women noted that relevant government agencies have failed to address the persistent destruction of their crops by herders’ cattle, compounding their sense of injustice.
Addressing the protesters, Abia State Commissioner for Finance, Uwaoma Ukandu, assured them that their concerns would be relayed to Governor Alex Otti. He pledged a thorough investigation and appealed for calm, promising that the issues raised would be resolved.
The women urged Governor Otti to safeguard indigenous land rights and prevent any further unauthorized acquisition of their community’s land.