HURIWA Urges NSCDC to Adhere to Court Orders in Anambra Dispute

HURIWA urges the NSCDC to comply with court decisions and steer clear of escalating the land dispute controversy in Anambra.

HURIWA, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, has expressed deep worry regarding NSCDC’s purported participation in a disputed land conflict within Anambra State. The organization urges them to refrain from any actions that could compromise rule-of-law principles.

In a statement issued on Friday, the National Coordinator of HURIWA, Emmanuel Onwubiko, firmly urged Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi,the Commandant General of NSCDC,to promptly desist from taking over the contentious land in Nri Town situated at Anaocha Local Government Area concurrently undergoing legal proceedings at Anambra State High Court.

The group stressed that any disregard for the ongoing litigation would be considered illegal and provocative.

For several decades, there has been a prolonged legal dispute over the ownership of land located in Diodo village within Nri. The controversy involves various stakeholders such as Adazi-Nnukwu, Umudiani Family Nri, Enuora Family Nri, Umunri Community and Nimo Community. A current court case with reference to Suit number AA/94/85 resulted in an existing interlocutory order that prohibits all parties from trespassing on the disputed property until it is rightfully resolved.

Although there was a judicial order, the Anambra State Command of the NSCDC released a news bulletin stating that four plots of land in dispute had been given to them by Nri Kingdom for constructing an office complex and training center for Area D Command Headquarters. The document was signed by SC Okadigbo Edwin, Head of Media & Tactical Ops.

Read Also: Immigration Officer Killed Amid Escalating Land Dispute

HURIWA has promptly responded to the issue after conducting a thorough investigation and being presented with evidence by Diodo stakeholders. The organization unequivocally dismissed the claim as incorrect and harmful.

The association conveyed serious apprehension regarding the NSCDC’s intention to receive the “donation” or commence building on contested land, particularly because a court order is already in place. Such actions could not only contravene the court order but also escalate tensions within the community, which may trigger chaos and disorderliness.

HURIWA’s statement stressed the crucial importance of abiding by the rule of law, particularly for law enforcement agencies such as NSCDC that are responsible for maintaining public peace and enforcing court orders. The organization pointed out that a valid court order was observed, indicating that the alleged donation is both legally null and represents an irresponsible maneuver by certain individuals attempting to enable a prolonged land dispute whose motives remain unclear. HURIWA cautioned against these actions adding it jeopardizes not only NSCDC’s integrity but also risks tarnishing its reputation as guardians of justice and upholders of public order.

In addition, HURIWA highlighted to Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, that immediate action is required to intervene and prevent NSCDC from getting embroiled in this legal complication.

The NSCDC leadership was reminded by the association about their responsibility as per Section 287(3) of the Constitution of Nigeria (1999), which states they must abide by and implement court orders.

HURIWA issued a warning that failing to uphold this obligation could lead to an egregious flouting of the law, consequently diminishing faith in the agency’s dedication towards impartiality and justice.

The association cautioned that Nri Town is in a highly unstable state, and any action taken by the NSCDC regarding the disputed land could result in violence and disruption of public peace.

HURIWA emphasized that the NSCDC should refrain from intervening in a land conflict currently being handled by a competent court. Rather, it should operate within legal procedures and uphold principles of justice. The group clarified that acknowledging the disputed property as a gift would not only lack legal merit but could also have detrimental consequences on peace in the locality.

HURIWA has crafted a thorough stance document aimed at both the Commandant General of the NSCDC and the Attorney General of the Federation, considering these worries.

The NSCDC was advised in the document to decline the alleged land proposal and refrain from engaging in any conduct that could entangle them in legal and communal difficulties. HURIWA’s stance paper also urged a renewed pledge to adhere to lawful procedures, as well as a conspicuous display of responsible leadership by the NSCDC.

HURIWA reiterated its resolute dedication to upholding justice, equity, and adherence to the rule of law in concluding its declaration.

HURIWA urged the NSCDC to exhibit its deference for the judiciary and dedication to abiding by regulations, refraining from accessing the contested territory until after a court verdict. The organization reiterated that as a reputable law enforcement institution, adhering to legal proceedings and just principles is crucial in upholding democracy’s foundation.

In conclusion, HURIWA urged all parties concerned with the land conflict to display self-control and honor the ongoing judicial proceedings.

The association has voiced optimism that the judiciary will act with impartiality and adhere to legal dictates, thus guaranteeing justice for all involved.

HURIWA affirmed that the maintenance of peace, lawfulness and order hinges on all parties involved – including governmental entities- valuing and complying with legal parameters.