The Nteje Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed strong disapproval over the recent resolution by the Anambra State House of Assembly ordering the arrest of the President General (PG) of the community, Chief Eze Chinedu Emmanuel.

In a press statement made available to journalists in Awka, the state capital, Chairman of the Forum, Chief Chukwudi Ohanekwu, faulted the Assembly’s resolution, stating that the House has no legal authority to order the arrest of the PG over a land dispute.

According to Ohanekwu, the House’s decision stemmed from a petition by individuals who alleged that they had purchased about 500 plots of land from the PG and his executive, but later discovered the land was resold.

However, the Elders’ Forum maintains that land matters do not fall within the legislative purview of the House of Assembly. “What the lawmakers should have done was to direct the aggrieved parties to seek redress in a court of competent jurisdiction,” Ohanekwu said.

He emphasized that the role of adjudicating land disputes lies with the judiciary, not the legislature, and cautioned against politicizing civil matters which could further inflame tensions in the community.

The Forum also urged that the office of the President General be accorded due respect, stressing that Chief Emmanuel was duly elected and has the mandate of the people.

“We advise that efforts should be geared towards calming the situation, rather than escalating it by issuing an arrest order on the PG,” Ohanekwu added.

He concluded that issues bordering on land ownership are civil in nature and should not be used to generate unnecessary conflict within the community.