Imo Govt clears air on the allocation of land to Zion Ministries, saying only 1000 hectares of land were acquired.
Following the allegation by some people in Mbaishii Ngor Okpala LGA , that Imo state government allocated 30 hectares of land to Zion Prayer Ministries owned by Evang. Ebuka Obi, the commissioner for Lands, Survey and Physical planning in the state, Barr Enyinna Onuegbu has debunked the allegation saying that only 1000 hectares of land of the 2000 hectares acquired in 2003 by Governor Achike Udenwa administration were allocated to Zion Prayer Ministry.
Addressing a world press conference on Tuesday at his office in owerri, Barr Onuegbu revealed that only 2000 hectares of land were acquired in 2003 by the administration of former Governor Achike Udenwa.
“Contrary to claims by certain individuals that the Imo State Government acquired 30,000 hectares of land for Evangelist Ebuka Obi, the truth remains that only 2,000 hectares of land were acquired in 2003 by the administration of former Governor Achike Udenwa. A Certificate of Occupancy was issued in favour of the Imo Guangdong Free Trade Zone, earmarked for public use.”
According to the Commissioner, successive governments initiated a series of revocations and reallocations, in accordance with standard procedures, especially when allottees fail to utilise allocated land within stipulated timeframes.
“Upon expression of interest by Zion Ministries Inc. to make strategic investments in the area, the Government allocated 1,000 hectares of the existing 2,000 hectares to them. This was designated for the development of public-use infrastructure, including a school, hospital, religious centre, water processing factory, event centre, old people’s home, estate development, and more.
This decision was based on the projected economic and social impact, particularly job creation and regional development—benefits which are already manifesting within the host community”.
Barr Onuegbu added thar those spreading malicious falsehoods about this allocation are driven by selfish interests and personal gains, saying that the Government is aware of individuals illicitly selling parts of the remaining land and will, in due course, prosecute those involved.
He furthered that compensation for the land was duly paid upon initial acquisition, and the remaining balance has since been cleared by the State Government.
“As part of its corporate social responsibility, Zion Ministries Inc. made financial contributions to the five affected villages. The traditional rulers (Ndi Eze) and community leaders were actively involved throughout the acquisition, post-acquisition, and allocation processes”
Barr Onuegbu pointed out that Government’s actions are in the best interest of the people. He further urged individuals to embrace the progress-oriented change, as the present government works towards building a stronger, more prosperous Imo State.
