Displaced Ogoni Communities in Rivers Decry Renewed Land Grabbing Threats
Indigenes of 17 Ogoni communities in Rivers State, who were displaced during the military regime of the late Sani Abacha in 1994, have raised the alarm over a renewed threat of land grabbing on their ancestral lands. The communities, spanning three local council areas, allege that their land is being encroached upon by foreigners in connivance with neighboring communities, who are unlawfully selling portions of it.
Historical Context and Current Concerns
The concerns were highlighted during a gathering to mark the 32nd anniversary of the sacking of the Lekuma-Ogoni communities by the military. Participants recalled that the military invasion during the Ogoni struggle led to the deaths of hundreds of people, a tragic event that has left lasting scars on the community.
Speaking at the event, Esther Gboro, a woman leader from the Lekuma Community in Tai Local Council Area, detailed the ongoing threats. She alleged that individuals, accompanied by members of a neighboring community, frequently invade their ancestral lands to sell portions at giveaway prices without consulting the rightful owners.
Allegations of Unlawful Sales
Gboro stated, "They come here with land grabbers and sell our land. They sell two plots of land for N300,000 and give one free. So, that made people buy more land from them. They don't even want to know the real owners who live there; they will just come and buy the land." This practice, she emphasized, undermines the legal rights and heritage of the displaced communities.
During a recent invasion, the alleged land grabbers arrived with markers, possibly to demarcate large portions for sale. However, they were resisted by the natives, who Gboro said are prepared to defend their land against further encroachments.
Broader Implications
The situation highlights ongoing challenges faced by displaced communities in Nigeria, where land rights and security remain contentious issues. The Ogoni communities' plight underscores the need for stronger legal protections and government intervention to prevent land grabbing and ensure justice for affected indigenes.
As the communities continue to advocate for their rights, the renewed threats serve as a stark reminder of the unresolved conflicts stemming from historical displacements and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to land disputes in Rivers State.
