Enugu community begins land administration reforms to support city expansion

From Jude Chinedu, Enugu

Umunonu-Umuezeani kindred of Ugwogo community, in Enugu East Local Government Area, has initiated a comprehensive sanitisation of its land administration to align with Governor Peter Mbah’s vision for the expansion of the new Enugu capital city.

The effort, announced during the community’s general assembly meeting at the traditional town hall square, is aimed at preventing land ownership disputes and fostering real estate development.

Led by the Peace and Development Committee Chairman, Donatus Agbodo, the community elders, leaders, youths, women, and general members have called on land buyers to regularise their documents to avoid future encumbrances. The move is part of a broader strategy to avert the land ownership crises that have hindered neighbouring communities.

Spokesman for the community elders, Emmanuel Edeonu, expressed confidence in the Agbodo-led leadership to drive the Ugwogo community’s role in developing the modern Enugu mega city initiative. He emphasised the importance of sanitising the land administration process to support the goal.

Traditional Head of Umunonu-Umuezeani, Joseph Ugwumba, highlighted the community’s efforts since 2014 to develop an industrial layout aimed at attracting investors. He urged investors to submit their original and photocopy title documents for verification and ratification to prevent future disputes.

“We entrust the Peace and Development Committee, led by Donatus Agbodo, with the power of attorney to ensure all genuine investors secure their land titles. We welcome all legitimate investors to our peaceful community,” Ugwumba said.

Agbodo reiterated that the community’s actions are for posterity, ensuring future investments are safeguarded. He reassured investors of the community’s peaceful environment and legal commitment to preventing the resale of land.

On his part, the legal adviser to the community, Chukwuemeka Agbo, called on the public to attend the verification sessions held every Monday at 10 AM in the town hall. He emphasised the importance of compliance for the development of the community and discouraged contrary announcements.

Theresa Edeonu, the women leader, and Chiedozie Eko, the youth leader, pledged their support to the Peace and Development Committee, committing to the community’s progress and unity.