BY PATRICK MGBODO/BLESSING NNAJI
THE Delta State Government has vowed to protect investors from any community attempting to undermine their legitimate interests, assuring that those who invest in he state would enjoy a rewarding experience.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Chief Edwin Uzor, gave the assurance while mediating a dispute between Hand of God Construction Company Limited and the Idumu-Isor Quarters of Issele-Azagba in Aniocha North Local Government Area.
In a petition to the governor, Hand of God Construction Company accused the community leader, Chief Princewill Ikediashi, and his council of defrauding them of ₦218 million for 100 acres of land meant for the construction of affordable homes.
The company stated that after constructing around 30 houses, they sought building approval from the Ministry of Lands and Survey, only to discover that the land had been acquired by the state government and already allocated for other purposes.
‘’Princewill Ikediashi and his council have defrauded our company by selling to us government-acquired land. As one willing to invest in Delta State by building 2000 units of affordable houses and creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs in the state, we seek your (governor) intervention’’ the petition, signed by Engr Emeka Nwachukwu, read.
In his defense, Chief Ikediashi denied defrauding the company. While he admitted that part of the community’s land had been acquired by the state government, he claimed he was unable to identify the specific portion, which led him to take the matter to court.
However, while the matter was pending at the Multidoor Court for an amicable resolution, developers continued building in the area. This prompted Chief Ikediashi to bring in an investor, Hand of God Construction, to initiate a project he believed would benefit both the community and the state.
Ikediashi further claimed that he sought the de-acquisition of the land, alleging there was an agreement in place. However, he admitted that after the company had begun construction, another party came forward to claim the land, sparking the land dispute.
In response, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution cautioned community leaders against mortgaging land that does not belong to them. He also advised investors to conduct thorough due diligence with the appropriate authorities to avoid potential issues.
‘’Let us have it in mind that the state government, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is 100 percent in support of investors to come to Delta State and communities should not in any way discourage them because what is ahead is more than what we are seeing today.
‘’Therefore, we (communities) must be very cautious of whatever we do. We must direct investors rightly. We must go and verify any area that is confusing us, particularly on land issues’’ Chief Uzor said.
During the meeting, officials from the Ministry of Lands and Survey were present to clarify any ambiguities and address allegations. They advised both investors and communities to adhere to due process, reinforcing the earlier advice given by Chief Uzor.
