The Imo State Government has officially addressed and dismissed recent misinformation surrounding land allocation in the Mbaishii area of Ngor-Okpala LGA. Contrary to claims that 30,000 hectares were allocated to Zion Ministries Inc., the government clarified that only 2,000 hectares were acquired in 2003, with 1,000 hectares recently allocated to the ministry.
At a press conference hosted by the Imo State Government, Chief Barr. Enyinna Onuegbu, the Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry of Lands, Survey, and Physical Planning, explained that the land was originally acquired under the administration of former Governor Achike Udenwa for a Chinese Village initiative known as the “Imo-Gwandom” project. A Certificate of Occupancy was issued for an Export Processing Zone (EPZ), but the project stalled due to legal and local challenges.
Subsequent administrations, including those of Sen. Rochas Okorocha and Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, made unsuccessful efforts to revive the site through ventures like Imo-Chelsea Limited and an Agro Processing Zone.
In 2024, Governor Hope Uzodinma’s Shared Prosperity administration revoked the Imo-Chelsea deal and allocated 1,000 hectares of the land to Zion Ministries for development aligned with the state’s economic goals.
Barr. Onuegbu strongly refuted allegations by opposition figures Dr. Sam Amadi and Dr. Jim Nwoke, accusing them of spreading false information and inciting public unrest. He dismissed their claims of land grabbing and excessive allocation as politically motivated.
He also revealed that some individuals had previously attempted to illegally sell parts of the government-acquired land and are now resorting to misinformation.
According to the Commissioner, rightful landowners from the six clans of Mbaishii—Eziama, Amala, Ntu, Ikem, Alatia, Umuogwu, and Umuche—received due compensation. Mbaishii comprises 23 villages and four autonomous communities.
The Commissioner acknowledged the involvement of key community stakeholders, including Chief Goddy Onyewuenyi, Rev. Titus Akanawu, Prof. Daniel Onwukwe, Chief Theophilus Uwakwe, and Chief T.A. Amadi, who continue to support the development plans.
Regarding accusations of forceful crop destruction and denial of land access, Onuegbu labeled such claims as baseless. He emphasized that the land was lawfully acquired and that any remaining disputes are being addressed in court.
Reaffirming the Uzodinma administration’s commitment to transparency and public welfare, Onuegbu said land allocations have been geared toward public infrastructure projects, including schools, hospitals, and industries, in line with the Land Use Act.
As Traditional Prime Minister of Eziama Ancient Kingdom, he assured his people of his dedication to their well-being and urged support for Governor Uzodinma’s 3R Agenda: Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Recovery.
He also invited both local and international investors to partner with the state for sustainable development.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Imo State Surveyor General, Surv. Odidika Bob Uzodinma; Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Sir Collins Ughalaa; and Chairman of the Ngor-Okpala Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Engr. Fred Nwachukwu.
The press briefing reaffirmed the government’s position and called for unity, peace, and progress in Imo State.
