Nsulu Women Rise Against Airport Project, Demand Justice
Nbawsi Nsulu, Abia State: A fresh wave of protests has engulfed the serene community of Nbawsi Nsulu in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State. The protests, led by the womenfolk, are a direct response to the state government’s controversial handling of the proposed Abia Airport project.
The community, which had initially welcomed the project as a catalyst for development, is now embroiled in a bitter dispute with the government. Residents claim that the government has deviated from the originally approved site, which was free from encumbrances and far from residential areas. Instead, they allege that the government is now eyeing a new location closer to homes and farmland, leading to widespread discontent.
On Monday, tensions reached a boiling point as determined women blocked government officials from entering the Umuomainta Women Development Hall. The planned meeting, intended to discuss the project with selected individuals, was thwarted by the women’s resolute stance.
Nze Chukwudinma Ikpo, a concerned resident, clarified that the protests are not against the airport project itself but rather against the government’s disregard for the community’s interests. He emphasized that Nsulu people have already made significant sacrifices by donating land for the project and obtaining a certificate of occupancy for the site.
However, the government’s recent actions have ignited suspicion and mistrust among the populace. Residents allege that government officials are negotiating with individuals who do not have legitimate land ownership rights, further fueling the community’s anger.
As the situation escalates, the people of Nsulu are demanding that the state government rectify the issue and engage in transparent and inclusive consultations with authentic landowners. They are determined to protect their rights and ensure that the airport project is implemented in a manner that benefits the entire community without causing undue hardship or displacement.
