A positive public service culture is grounded in integrity, impartiality, competence, and loyalty to the public interest above personal gain. Effective public servants understand that their duty is to serve, not to rule. However, negative attitudes often arise from poor communication, lack of recognition, or disregard for accountability l leading to inefficiency and erosion of public trust.
Too often, citizens seeking information from public offices are met with reluctance or arrogance, as though such information were a privilege rather than a constitutional right. This “don’t-care” attitude, combined with isolationist work habits, weakens public confidence and obstructs effective service delivery.
It is against this broader backdrop that new allegations of land grabbing, abuse of office, and misuse of authority have surfaced against Mr. Ebuka Onuorah, the President General (PG) of Enugwu-Agidi Town in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State.
According to claims made by a community member, Mr. Chinedu Ikeanyi (Ozo Nwawelugo), Mr. Onuorah’s administration is accused of ceding parts of Enugwu-Agidi’s territory to individuals linked to Awka through unauthorized land transactions. It is further alleged that some close associates of the PG have engaged in questionable land deals under the guise of “community development.”
The statement also alleges that lands have been sold or transferred without due community authorization, while certain local residents have faced intimidation or harassment for opposing these actions. Some reports even point to the alleged use of private security operatives to suppress dissent.
While these claims remain unverified, they have nonetheless heightened community tension. Concerned citizens are now demanding an official inquiry by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, the Commissioner for Information, the Commissioner for Lands, and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command.
In pursuit of clarity and resolution, I personally contacted the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Anambra State, concerning the ongoing land dispute. I reminded him of our conversation last week, during which he assured me that he would look into the matter.
However, during our most recent discussion today, the Commissioner explained that he had just lost his Local Government Chairman and was personally attending to related matters. He also revealed that most governmental activities in Anambra State are currently suspended until after the election, except for emergencies requiring direct intervention by the State Government. In such cases, he noted, the Governor through the Commissioner for Lands and Commissioner of Police may authorize immediate action.
Additionally, I have been in communication with the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, as well as the Commissioner for Information, who requested that I formally send my concerns via WhatsApp for proper documentation. I have since submitted a detailed request stating that we call on the Government of Anambra State to urgently intervene in the Enugwu-Agidi crisis by addressing the growing allegations of land grabbing, abuse of office, and human rights violations.
- Constitute an independent panel of inquiry to investigate the allegations and ensure accountability.
- Suspend the President General, Hon. Chukwuebuka Onuorah, pending the outcome of the investigation, to guarantee transparency.
- Audit all land transactions carried out under his administration and make the findings public.
- Protect victims and whistleblowers facing intimidation or threats for speaking out.
- Restore lawful traditional leadership and ensure justice, restitution, and peace in the community.
The Enugwu-Agidi situation is not merely a local dispute; it is a test of the Anambra State Government’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ ancestral rights. Prompt and impartial action will not only restore peace but also strengthen public trust in governance.
Unfortunately, many public servants underestimate the power and influence of the media. They often dismiss journalists or look down on them, forgetting that persistent negative publicity can cause lasting reputational damage turning a public servant into a liability for the very institution they represent.
Transparency, humility, and open communication are vital for any government that wishes to be respected by its citizens. Public officials must remember that being constantly featured in the media for the wrong reasons erodes credibility and public trust.
Under Sections 43 and 44 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), every citizen has the right to acquire and own property anywhere in the country, and no one may be deprived of such property without due process or fair compensation. Any proven case of unauthorized land appropriation or conversion violates these constitutional provisions and could constitute an offence under Nigeria’s Criminal Code Act.
While the allegations against Mr. Ebuka Onuorah remain unproven at this stage, the matter demands an urgent, transparent, and lawful investigation. Both the accusers and the accused deserve a fair hearing before competent authorities.
Ultimately, justice whichever direction it takes must be transparent, fair, and rooted in truth. The Anambra State Government, through its relevant ministries and agencies, must act decisively to ensure that the principles of accountability, equity, and the rule of law prevail in Enugwu-Agidi.
Daniel Okonkwo is a seasoned writer, human rights advocate, and public affairs analyst, renowned for his thought-provoking articles on governance, justice, and social equity. Through his platform, Profiles International Human Rights Advocate, he consistently sheds light on pressing issues affecting Nigeria and beyond, amplifying voices that call for accountability and reform. He is also a professional transcriptionist and experienced petition writer, with over 1,000 published articles to his credit on Google. Many of his works have been featured in Sahara Reporters and other major news outlets. In addition, he works as a ghostwriter, freelancer, and journalist.
