A land dispute has sparked fresh controversy in Uyo, following the demolition of buildings on Plot 42, Block F, Government Residential Estate, Anua Offot/Ifa Ikot Okpon, Etoi, Uyo Local Government Area, allegedly carried out by staff of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Lands and Town Planning.
In a petition dated May 9, 2025, and addressed to the Hon. Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, legal counsel to the allottee, Mrs. Prisca Inyang, accused officials of the Ministry of unlawfully demolishing her client’s structures despite proper documentation and transfer of title from the former government allottee, Mrs. Imelda Ime Unya.
The lawyer, Eno E. Inyang Esq., disclosed that on Thursday, May 8, 2025, staff of the Ministry—led by a certain official identified as Mr. Enobong—arrived at the property with an excavator and security operatives in a military Hilux van, and pulled down a four-bedroom detached building, a gatehouse, perimeter fencing, and a zinc gate.
According to the petition, the demolition was carried out without notice or verification of ownership documents. The lawyer stated that when confronted, Mr. Enobong dismissed the matter, allegedly remarking: “Madam, what is the worth of your structures that they cannot be restored by us.”
The petition further noted that the property owner had secured government approvals, including a letter of consent from the Ministry of Lands, building approval from UCCDA, and a survey plan prepared in her name by the Office of the Surveyor General, all in preparation for the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
Describing the demolition as “illegal and unlawful,” the solicitor demanded immediate restoration of the structures to status quo and disciplinary action against those responsible. The letter warned that failure to act within seven days would compel the owner to seek redress in court.
The petition was also copied to the Director of Lands and the Director of Town Planning in the Ministry.
At press time, the Ministry of Lands and Town Planning had yet to issue an official response to the allegations.
