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The festive season was bleak for residents of Ifa Ikot Okpon in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, as the demolition of their homes by the state government left many homeless just days before Christmas 2024.
Over 100 buildings, affecting 182 individuals and 52 families, were razed in the exercise, with several other structures marked for demolition. A visit by Daily Post revealed a scene of ruins and despair, as residents, living in fear of impending demolitions, narrated harrowing tales of loss and displacement.
Residents Speak Out
Among the victims is Pastor Kokoete Sunday Edah of the Living Faith Church, who recounted how his home and church were demolished without prior notice or compensation.
“I purchased this land 20 years ago and have lived here peacefully,” he said. “In October 2024, government officials assessed my property, assured me of compensation, and promised to give notice before any action. But on December 19, I returned home to find my building being bulldozed. My children were inside, crying. All our belongings, including certificates, were destroyed. Now, my family is homeless and struggling to survive.”
Similarly, Charles Bassey, a retired journalist, lamented the loss of his home, built with life savings and loans. “From the Uyo master plan, the demolished area was not government-acquired land. Yet, they claimed it was for a judges’ estate,” he said.
Anthony Thomas Ekot, a 75-year-old landlord, expressed despair over losing his twin three-bedroom flat and store. “At my age, how do I rebuild? I don’t even know if I’ll live to see compensation,” he lamented.
Looting Amid Demolitions
The demolitions also attracted scavengers and street urchins who looted valuables from the rubble. Residents reported being attacked while trying to salvage their belongings.
“My wife was teargassed and assaulted by soldiers and looters during the demolition,” Bassey recounted. “Now, even nails and wood are gone.”
Government Justifies Action
While some officials claim the land was government-acquired, there is no concrete documentation to support this. During a December 2024 inter-ministerial briefing, former Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, Capt. Iniobong Ekong (Rtd), stated the government was reclaiming land encroached upon by illegal developers.
However, Ifa Ikot Okpon’s Village Head, Etteidung Uwem Tom Udo, refuted the claim. “The government never acquired this land. We held multiple meetings with officials, including Governor Umo Eno, who assured us the government had withdrawn its interest,” he said.
Udo appealed to Governor Eno to intervene, expressing confidence in his compassion and leadership.
Legal Battle and Compensation Demand
The community has filed a lawsuit against the state government, demanding N600 million in compensation for the demolished properties and land. The suit also seeks a declaration that the land in question was not legally acquired by the government.
The case, scheduled for hearing on February 11, 2025, is expected to address the legality of the demolitions and the compensation claims.
As the victims await justice, they continue to endure the hardship of displacement, holding onto hope that their plight will be resolved.