Ngor-Okpala Communities Protest Alleged Land Takeover by Zion Ministry

 By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

Imo state government has been called upon to profer amicable resolution to the ongoing land conflict between Zion Ministry and the Mbaishi landowners in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State by the affected indigenes.

Dr. Sam Amadi, a legal advocate and spokesperson for the affected communities, made known when he  addressed the media, raising concerns about the alleged forceful acquisition of approximately 30,000 hectares of farmland.

The affected communities Alatia, Eziama, Ntu, Amala, Ikem, and Oburu Ogbukwe rely heavily on their land for agriculture and other means of livelihood. Dr. Amadi clarified that the people are not opposed to Zion Ministry, its founder Evangelist Ebuka Obi, or the Imo State Government. Instead, they welcome development and religious institutions but insist that land acquisitions must adhere to due process and respect their rights.

‘The people of these six communities are religious and supportive of spiritual revival. However, their survival depends on this land, and the manner of acquisition is deeply troubling,’ Dr. Amadi stated.

He described the situation as ‘economic genocide,’ emphasising that the livelihoods of the communities are at risk. ‘Land is central to the economic survival of these communities. With no industries or public amenities, their existence is tied to farming. Denying them access to this land is not just unfair; it is a threat to their survival.’

Dr. Amadi stressed that Nigerian law permits land acquisition only for public purposes and requires fair compensation. He pointed out that ‘churches, regardless of their mission, are private entities. Land for religious purposes cannot be acquired as public land under the law.’

The legal advocate also criticised the alleged approach taken in the land acquisition process, claiming that armed personnel were present during the land survey, causing fear among residents. ‘The communities woke up to the sight of armed officers accompanying the surveying of their lands without prior consent. Such actions are unacceptable in a democracy,’ he remarked.

Dr. Amadi emphasised the importance of peaceful and sustained negotiation with families and communities directly affected by such processes. According to him, the manner in which the acquisition was handled appeared coercive and disrespectful, fostering distrust and intimidation.

He further questioned the necessity of acquiring 30,000 hectares of land for religious purposes, calling it excessive. ‘If Zion Ministry needs land, it should start with a smaller portion and expand when necessary. Taking such a vast expanse of land without alternatives for the affected families is unacceptable.’

The communities are seeking a peaceful resolution through dialogue and negotiation. Dr. Amadi urged both the state government and Zion Ministry to respect the rights of the people and ensure that any land acquisition is voluntary and adequately compensated. He added, ‘The communities are not against development or Zion Ministry. They are simply asking for their rights to be respected. If the government must take land under public interest, it must be for public value—not private purposes. The survival and future of these communities must not be sacrificed.’

Dr. Amadi concluded by warning against actions that could provoke unrest, calling on all parties to prioritise transparency and adherence to democratic principles. ‘We must avoid creating another crisis in Ngor-Okpala. Let us resolve this matter peacefully to prevent the escalation of tensions.’

The Spokesperson underscored the urgent need for fairness, legal compliance, and sensitivity in handling land acquisition to safeguard the survival of the affected communities while balancing development goals.