Demolitions: Akwa Ibom Ousts Over 50 Families, Sparks Outcry
In Ifa Ikot Okpon, located in the Uyo local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, the Christmas celebrations of 2024 were marked by an unexpected tragedy as many residents found themselves without homes due to the demolition of their houses ordered by the State government.
Approximately 100 residences were affected, impacting 182 individuals and 52 families, while numerous other structures have been designated for potential demolitions.
A report by a Naijaeyes correspondent revealed the community in a state of devastation, with those whose homes were marked for demolition living in anxiety over the imminent disaster that loomed over them.
Kokoete Sunday Edah, a pastor from the Living Faith Church and a victim of the demolitions, recounted his experience of having his home and church destroyed without any advance notice or compensation.
He shared, “I am Kokoete Sunday Edah. Originally from Oron, Akwa Ibom State, I bought this property 20 years ago from a resident of Ifa Ikot Okpon and have cohabited here with my family since then.
“This area was quite undeveloped back then until various governments, particularly Udom Emmanuel’s administration, constructed the ring road and upgraded the road.
“I lived peacefully in this community without issues. However, in October 2024, individuals came to my property and informed me that the government intended to take over the land.
“They never mentioned that I had built on land owned by the government.”
Edah added that officials assessed his property and left him with the promise of adequate compensation, along with sufficient notice so that he could find alternative housing and relocate his belongings.
He recounted his shock when, on December 19th, he stepped out to run an errand and received a call from a neighbor alerting him that his house was being demolished.
“On December 19th, as I briefly stepped out, I received a call informing me that a machine was demolishing property near mine. When I returned, I found them tearing down my house.
“My children were inside screaming, and I was in a state of disbelief, looking up and questioning, ‘God, where are you? Are you still the same God we believe in?’
“I contacted the Director of Lands to ask what happened, and he replied, ‘Pastor, it’s beyond our control; I acted on orders, with the directive to demolish first and address compensation afterward.’”
NAIJAEYES REPORT.
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