The Abia State Government has announced that it will take legal action against anyone or any group found encroaching on lands that belong to public schools in the state.
This decision was shared by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, during a briefing in Umuahia on Tuesday.
Kanu revealed that a committee set up by Governor Alex Otti to recover school lands has made significant progress. He explained that the committee found out that not only individuals but also market associations, religious organizations, and even communities were involved in taking over school land.
“The committee is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that all those involved in taking over school land are brought to book,” Kanu said.
To effectively cover the entire state, the committee was divided into three groups, focusing on the Abia North, Central, and South Senatorial Districts. Kanu added, “The Abia North, Central, and South Senatorial Districts committees are headed by Chaka Chukwumerije, Kingsley Agomuo, and Uche Ukeje, respectively.”
In addition, Kanu warned school proprietors against resuming academic activities before the official resumption date of 23 September, as announced by the government.
He also mentioned that Abia State would host the South-East Council of Traditional Rulers’ meeting on 28 September, assuring that the government is committed to creating a conducive environment for development.
Kanu noted that the JAC Building, constructed by the current government, has been opened for public use. “You can now go there and transact business with the ministries, departments, and agencies that have their offices in the building,” he added.
The government is determined to recover all school lands and hold those responsible accountable.
