The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has cautioned against any attempt to deploy forest guards or state security operatives to take over disputed community lands in Enugu State, describing such actions as unconstitutional and capable of breaching public peace.
Speaking during a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, the group, through its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA, expressed concern over alleged attempts by some elements to use state-backed forces in the ongoing Etiti Ngwo and Obeagu Awkunanaw land disputes.
The association urged the Enugu State Government and security agencies to uphold due process and ensure human rights are protected in all related investigations.
HURIWA also condemned what it called the “media trial, cyberbullying, and harassment” of an Enugu-based estate developer, Mr Kingsley Nebo, who is involved in the Etiti Ngwo land matter.
“We condemn in unequivocal terms the ongoing media trial being orchestrated against Mr Kingsley Nebo,” HURIWA said.
“Those disseminating falsehoods about an active investigation must desist immediately. Reckless cyberbullying not only endangers the life of an individual but also undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system.”
The group called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities to ensure fairness, transparency, and protection of human rights in handling the dispute, emphasising that all parties deserve equal treatment under the law.
“According to a petition before us, the individual in question was reportedly subjected to inhumane treatment in the course of investigation. However, we have also been informed that the Police High Command has taken steps to review the matter. We urge the authorities to ensure that justice is done and seen to be done,” HURIWA stated.
The rights body commended the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) for directing officers to refrain from involvement in land matters, describing the order as “a proactive step toward curbing abuses of office”.
“The IGP’s directive prohibiting police involvement in civil land disputes is commendable,” HURIWA noted.
“We urge strict enforcement of this policy to prevent the misuse of security institutions for personal or political gain.”
HURIWA observes that tension is rising in the Obeagu Awkunanaw community, Enugu South Local Government Area, following renewed concerns over alleged plans by officials of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA) to reclaim parts of their ancestral land.
The group said the community had petitions to Governor Peter Mbah, the Inspector-General of Police, and the ECTDA Chairman, expressing alarm over reported markings on their buildings and fears of another round of demolition.
“We were shocked when we observed persons who, without proper identification, claimed to be officials of ECTDA and marked several of our structures for removal,” the community said in a protest letter jointly signed by its leaders, including President-General Hon. Mike Ogbonna, Secretary-General Reuben Okafor, and Traditional Prime Minister Chief Christian Egbo, according to HURIWA.
The Obeagu community urged the state government to halt any planned exercise, citing ongoing court cases on the disputed land, specifically Suit No. E/1081/2019 and E/263/2020, which they said remain unresolved.
“Given the pending court proceedings, any attempt to carry out demolitions or land takeovers would be sub judice and contrary to the rule of law.” HURIWA quoted the letter.
In a separate petition dated October 5, 2025, the community also called for the intervention of Governor Mbah over alleged plans to deploy forest guards to their area. They appealed to the governor to prevent any forceful actions that could lead to conflict.
“We respectfully urge Your Excellency to investigate these reports and ensure that state security formations are not misused in any way that could cause tension or breach of peace in our community,” the petition added.
HURIWA aligned with the community’s call for restraint, stressing that all disputes must be settled through lawful processes.
“It would be a direct affront to the rule of law if coercive forces are deployed to settle civil land disagreements while such matters are before the court,” the association warned. “The government must not use security agencies to interfere in civil cases or intimidate citizens.”
While acknowledging the tragic loss of life in a previous clash in Etiti Ngwo in July 2025, HURIWA urged that investigations be allowed to run their course and that all allegations, regardless of the parties involved, be treated with impartiality.
“The sanctity of human life and the rule of law must be upheld at all times,” Onwubiko said. “Justice should be served for all victims, but it must not come at the expense of fairness or truth. The government and security agencies must avoid any act that could inflame tensions or encourage impunity.”
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