Community leaders in Amurri, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, have distanced themselves from a recent protest allegedly staged by a section of the Umuigbo Amurri community against ongoing government-backed development projects in the area.
Speaking to DAILY GAZETTE, the traditional ruler of Enuagu Amurri Ancient Kingdom, Igwe Charles Nwoye, condemned the protest and described it as the handiwork of a few individuals with selfish intentions.
He reaffirmed the community’s collective support for the ongoing Smart Green Farm Project and other state interventions facilitated by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.
“We were part of the agreement that handed over the land to the local government. It is unfortunate that some people, for personal gain, are trying to disrupt what will benefit the entire Amurri land,” Igwe Nwoye stated.
He emphasized that the land in question, located in Ogbaekpo Amurri, has remained fallow for generations and was willingly released to the government after consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including traditional leaders.
On his part, the councilor representing Amurri Ward in the Nkanu West Legislative Council, Hon. Obinna Chukwu, described the protest as politically motivated.
He expressed disappointment that while the community is witnessing unprecedented government attention through projects such as the Smart Green Farm, Smart Green School, and a Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centre, a few elements are working to discredit these efforts.
“Governor Mbah has brought life-changing projects to our people. This is the first time in decades that Amurri is receiving this level of attention. We cannot allow selfish interests to derail our progress,” Hon. Chukwu said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the council and the people of Amurri to continue supporting the government’s vision and praised the efforts of the Nkanu West Local Government Chairman, Hon. John Ogbodo, for championing the development of rural communities.
Hon. Ogbodo had earlier disclosed that the land acquisition followed due consultation with the community, including a formal agreement signed with traditional leaders such as Igwe Fidelis Nsiegbu of Umuigbo Amurri.
He noted that the Smart Green Farm Project also serves a security purpose, helping to deter cattle rustlers who have previously invaded the area.
While construction on the farm and related infrastructure continues at a rapid pace, the council chairman expressed dismay over attempts by certain individuals to incite unrest for personal gain.
Despite the distractions, work on the Smart Green Farm Project remains in top gear, with assurances from both local leaders and the government that the vision for rural transformation in Amurri will not be derailed.
