The controversy surrounding the alleged sale of Achalla-Agu land in Nteje has taken a new turn as Dr. Emma Ezeagbo, a trustee of the Achalagu in Diaspora Forum, has refuted the claims made by the President General (PG) of Nteje Development Union (NDU), Dr. Nnamdi Ilodiuba, regarding his involvement in the matter.
In a detailed letter addressed to the NDU office on February 27, 2025, Dr. Ezeagbo questioned the PG’s attempt to absolve himself of any wrongdoing, citing evidence that contradicts his claims. This response comes a day after Dr. Ilodiuba released a letter denying allegations of land sales and insisting on his non-involvement.
According to Dr. Ezeagbo, while Dr. Ilodiuba maintains that no signed documentation exists linking him to the land sales, several key points suggest otherwise. He referenced a previous request for clarification sent to the PG’s office on September 11, 2024, after Mr. Igwebuike, a candidate favored by the PG in the Achalagu minor ward chairmanship election, allegedly used his name in land-related dealings.
Additionally, Dr. Ezeagbo highlighted a conversation between Dr. Ilodiuba and a prominent community member, Mr. Obiajulu, where the PG reportedly expressed interest in the Achalagu matter. These factors, he argued, raise suspicion and indicate that the PG’s recent attempt to distance himself from the controversy may not be entirely truthful.
Dr. Ilodiuba had pointed to an apology from Mr. Patrick Nwakamma, Secretary of Achalla-Agu in Diaspora, as evidence that the allegations against him were baseless. However, Dr. Ezeagbo dismissed this claim, stating that a personal withdrawal from the case by an individual does not equate to a collective decision by the community.
“The withdrawal could have been influenced by coercion or personal reasons and should not be mistaken for a resolution of the matter,” Dr. Ezeagbo asserted. He further questioned why Mr. Nwakamma’s apology was posted on the NDU platform, suggesting it was an attempt to manipulate public perception rather than a genuine vindication.
Despite Dr. Ilodiuba’s insistence that he “dares not involve himself in any shady dealings,” Dr. Ezeagbo emphasized that dissatisfaction among community members remains high. He argued that the concerns raised by Achalla-Agu residents about the handling of land transactions had not been adequately addressed.
“The community deserves full transparency in matters of land ownership. The PG’s recent statements do not provide the necessary clarity,” he said.
Dr. Ezeagbo also stressed that legal proceedings concerning the disputed land are still ongoing. He criticized any attempts to preempt the legal process with public statements and urged all parties to allow the courts to determine the facts.
Additionally, he accused Dr. Ilodiuba of using Mr. Nwakamma’s apology letter as a distraction, rather than focusing on the main issue. “Posting a personal apology letter on the NDU platform and tagging it as ‘vindication’ is misleading,” he noted.
With tensions mounting in Nteje over the Achalla-Agu land dispute, Dr. Ezeagbo’s letter underscores the deep divisions within the community. He called on Dr. Ilodiuba to refrain from using diversionary tactics and instead focus on ensuring justice and transparency in the matter.
The controversy continues to generate debate, with stakeholders closely watching how the legal proceedings unfold. For now, the Achalla-Agu community remains steadfast in its demand for answers and accountability.