By Isaac Mission
The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has appealed to Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to take immediate steps to address the lingering land dispute involving Private Estate International (West Africa) Limited (PEIWA) and the Amechi Uwani and Obeagu Awkunanaw communities in Enugu South Local Government Area.
The advocacy organisation said urgent government intervention is needed to prevent further tension and possible breakdown of law and order in the affected communities.
In separate petitions submitted to the governor and the police chief, RULAAC raised concerns over plans to require residents and visitors to register through the privately managed Venco App before gaining access through the M-Trans Access Point, also known as the Centenary Gate, which links the two communities.
According to the organisation, while estate developers may implement security measures within their private facilities, they do not have the legal authority to restrict access to public roads or make digital registration a condition for exercising citizens' constitutional right to freedom of movement.
RULAAC also expressed concern over allegations of violence linked to the prolonged land dispute, citing previous incidents, including the killing of a Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) officer in December 2021 and the death of another individual during a confrontation in October 2025.
The group stated that although investigations into the reported killings were said to have been concluded and suspects identified, no prosecution has reportedly commenced. It warned that delays in prosecuting serious criminal offences could weaken public confidence in the justice system and deny justice to victims and their families.
RULAAC further urged the Inspector-General of Police to review allegations of misconduct and undue influence surrounding investigations connected to the disputed land, stressing the need for an independent and transparent process.
The organisation called on Governor Mbah to order an investigation into the legal status of the M-Trans Access Point, halt any move to restrict public access until the investigation is concluded, and convene all relevant stakeholders to seek a peaceful resolution to the dispute.
It noted that unresolved litigation, allegations of killings, delayed prosecutions and the proposed access restrictions have heightened tensions in the area, warning that swift action is necessary to prevent further violence.
RULAAC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, the rule of law and peaceful conflict resolution, while urging all parties involved to avoid violence and allow lawful institutions to resolve the dispute.
