A group of concerned residents living around the family residence of former Abia State Governor, Senator Theodore A. Orji, in the Azikiwe Street axis of Umuahia, have appealed to Governor Alex Otti to launch a panel of inquiry into what they described as questionable property acquisitions by the ex-governor and his family.
Speaking at a press briefing in Umuahia, the group’s spokesman, Chidi Amadi, alleged that several original land and property owners in the area were coerced into relinquishing their holdings at predetermined prices, leaving them with little or no choice.
According to the residents, the acquisitions were not conducted transparently, raising concerns about fairness and due process. “Most of the original owners did not willingly sell their lands and houses to the Orjis. They were cajoled and arm-twisted to accept terms that were neither fair nor just,” Amadi stated.
The residents further urged Governor Otti to order the removal of gates allegedly installed on adjoining streets near the Azikiwe Road axis, where the former governor currently resides. They argued that these gates restrict free movement and create an environment where residents feel trapped in their own homes.
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“We have endured this situation for too long. It is time for justice. We are calling on the government to take decisive steps by demolishing the gates and setting up a transparent panel of inquiry to review how these properties were acquired,” the group said.
The call highlights growing public demand for accountability regarding property ownership and land acquisitions by past political leaders in the state.