The Onitsha South Local Government Council has taken legal action against the Anambra State House of Assembly, accusing it of overstepping its constitutional authority in a controversial land ownership matter.
In a lawsuit filed at the Onitsha High Court (Suit No. O/150/25), the Chairman of the Council, Chief Emeka Joseph Orji, is challenging the Assembly’s intervention in what he insists is a judicial matter.
The council is seeking the court’s determination on whether the Assembly, under Sections 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), has any legal basis to adjudicate on land ownership disputes.
“Let the defendants, Mr. Uchenna S. Uzoeto of No. 2D Sokoto Road, Onitsha, and Obi Nweke Eleglede, within 42 days of receiving this summons, enter appearance in this suit,” the court document states.
The council argues that the Assembly’s Committee on Public Petitions is attempting to act as a court in a matter that is already before multiple courts of competent jurisdiction and also under active police investigation.
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Paul Onuachala, Secretary of Onitsha South Local Government Area, clarified that the land in question is currently the subject of several pending lawsuits, involving multiple parties, notably one Chief Sabest Uzoeto, and is also being probed by law enforcement at Zone 13, Ukpo.
“Despite this, the House of Assembly and its Committee on Public Petitions have inserted themselves into the dispute, which raises serious legal and constitutional concerns,” Onuachala said.
He added, “The Council believes that any further intervention by the Assembly could be considered sub judice, as the matter is actively before the courts.”
The Onitsha South Council firmly maintains that the disputed land rightfully belongs to the local government and notes that it has already begun utilizing the space for public good.
“We’ve reclaimed the property and have constructed the first-ever fire service station in the ancient city of Onitsha, a critical infrastructure project long overdue,” Onuachala stated.
He also blamed years of neglect of the local government system in Anambra State for allowing individuals to illegally encroach upon council-owned properties.
Calling for restraint, he urged all involved parties to allow the courts to resolve the matter.
“The Onitsha South Local Government calls on everyone to respect the rule of law and await the judicial determination of rightful ownership,” he concluded.
