The Eze Gbakagbaka of Evo Kingdom, His Majesty, King Leslie N. Eke, has declared zero tolerance for land grabbing, fraudulent land transactions, and unlawful destruction of properties in his kingdom. He warned perpetrators to desist or face prosecution. This was contained in a statement signed by the Senior Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Human Rights and External Relations to the monarch, Chief Omenazu Jackson.
King Leslie N. Eke expressed displeasure over reports of illegal land acquisition, demolition of buildings, destruction of farmlands, and displacement of residents from their homes by suspected land speculators across Evo Kingdom. He described the alleged activities as a serious threat to the ancestral heritage, economic livelihoods, security, and peaceful coexistence of the Evo people.
The Eze Oha Evo III stressed that the protection of ancestral lands was fundamental to preserving the identity, history, and collective heritage of Evo Kingdom. He warned individuals and groups against laying claim to, selling, or developing land without establishing legitimate legal ownership. He also cautioned prospective land buyers, property developers, and investors to conduct proper investigations and verify land titles.
King Leslie N. Eke called on the Nigeria Police Force, relevant security agencies, land administration authorities, and prosecutor institutions to investigate reported cases of land grabbing, identify those responsible, and prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He urged community leaders, landholding families, and residents to cooperate with lawful authorities.
The monarch reaffirmed his commitment to peace and the peaceful resolution of disputes, stating that the protection of Evo Kingdom's ancestral heritage must not be compromised by individuals seeking unlawful personal gains. He stated that ancestral lands throughout the kingdom must be respected, and legitimate property rights protected.
King Leslie N. Eke advised residents, landowners, investors, and prospective property developers to respect the territorial heritage of Evo Kingdom and ensure that all land-related transactions were conducted transparently and in accordance with the law. He emphasized that Evo Kingdom is not a no-man's land, and they will not surrender their ancestral heritage to land grabbers.
The Eze Gbakagbaka of Evo Kingdom concluded by stating that anyone involved in illegal land grabbing will be held accountable through appropriate legal processes. He encouraged residents to report suspicious land transactions, illegal encroachments, threats, and acts of destruction of property to the relevant authorities.
Key points
- King Leslie N. Eke declares zero tolerance for land grabbing and threatens perpetrators with prosecution.
