Tensions Mount As IPOB Calls For Swift Resolution In Ebuka Obi, Ngor Okpala Land Dispute

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on the Imo State Government and prominent Igbo leaders to step in and resolve the ongoing land dispute between Evangelist Ebuka Obi of Zion Ministry and certain communities in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB emphasized that the relocation of Zion Ministry’s headquarters from Lagos to Imo aligns with the group’s long-standing appeal for Igbos to bring their investments back to the South-East.

“The global family of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the resolute leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, urges the Imo State Government and responsible Igbo leaders to intervene in the land dispute involving Evangelist Ebuka Obi and communities in Ngor Okpala LGA to ensure a peaceful resolution,” the statement said.

IPOB stated that while the group does not typically involve itself in civil matters such as land issues, it believes this particular situation could discourage further inward investment if not addressed swiftly and fairly.

“The Imo State Government is central to this issue and must investigate and resolve the matter in accordance with both customary and legal land ownership practices in Igboland,” the group added.

IPOB further explained that the decision by Zion Ministry to relocate to Alaigbo (Igboland) is a welcome development that should not be undermined by land-related disputes. The statement warned that unresolved conflicts could deter others from following suit.

“Returning investments home requires access to land. The Zion Ministry’s move is a step in the right direction, and this effort should be encouraged, not hindered,” IPOB noted.

According to the group, available information indicates that Zion Ministry held consultations with the host communities before involving the state government. IPOB insisted that community consent must be a key part of any land transaction to avoid unnecessary tensions.

“No governor has the authority to seize community land and allocate it to investors without local consent. All land negotiations must include the concerned communities,” IPOB stressed.

To resolve the impasse, IPOB urged the following:

• The Imo State Government should revisit the land in question to ensure Zion Ministry has not exceeded the approved boundaries.

• Individuals inciting the dispute for personal gain must stop immediately.

• Those funding and organizing protests over the issue should cease their actions.

• Evangelist Ebuka Obi and his ministry must return to the community for open dialogue.

• Respected Igbo leaders should step in to help broker a peaceful and lasting settlement.