The Abia State Government has commenced clearing the access road leading to the proposed runway of the Abia Airport in Nsulu, Isialangwa North Local Government Area, despite a court order mandating a stay of action on the project.
A state High Court sitting in Okpuala Ngwa had previously ordered the government to halt all activities on the project until the hearing and determination of a suit filed by Nsulu landowners. The suit, marked No. HIN/62/2024, challenges the state’s plan to acquire over 1,025 hectares of land from the affected communities. On December 20, 2024, Justice Enyinnaya Okezie ruled that the state government must refrain from any action on the land until the matter is resolved in court.
Despite this order, landowners reported that government bulldozers had moved to the site, and the governor’s Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, confirmed that work was ongoing.
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Community leaders and landowners have expressed outrage over the state government’s actions, calling on the public and relevant authorities to intervene. They argue that disregarding a court ruling sets a dangerous precedent for governance and investment in the state.
An elder from the affected community stated, “We are not against the airport project, but we have concerns about the size of land being acquired, the lack of transparency in the process, and the government’s unwillingness to disclose key details such as an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).”
The Nsulu Stakeholders Forum (NSF) warned that the government’s actions could deter investors. NSF Convener, Mazi Chigoram, said, “If the government openly disrespects court rulings, investors will question whether they can get justice in Abia State. This administration is unknowingly demarketing the state.”
The landowners have reiterated their demand for the government to limit its acquisition to 400 hectares, allowing local farmers to retain land for their livelihoods. They also insist that official land coordinates be provided to ensure clarity in the demarcation process. Furthermore, they have cautioned against individuals allegedly attempting to exploit the situation for land grabbing.
“No one should proceed with any clearing in Umuala until the enumeration report is released, verified, and landowners receive fair compensation,” a community representative warned.
The Nsulu Airport Land Owners and Host Communities group, represented by Head of Media Team Israel Ogbonna, signed a statement reaffirming their stance and urging the government to respect due process.
The case remains pending in court, and landowners insist that all actions on the project should be suspended until legal proceedings are concluded.
