B
y Dr Innocent Chidumebi Okonkwo.
In 1971, an agreement was reached between the indigenes of Aguleri and Anaku regarding the joint ownership of Itulu land, located across the Odene Ivite beach. The agreement, signed in 1971, stipulated that both parties would share royalties from the land. Signatories included HRM Igwe Alphonsus Idigo III of Aguleri, Ogbuevi Anebonam Ucha of Ivite Aguleri, Ogbuevi Akweze Okoye, Ichie Nnagbogu Edochie, Iferike Onyibo, and others.
However, it has come to our attention that only the indigenes of Anaku have been benefiting from the Coscharis Farm Ltd's operations on this land. Despite obtaining a certified copy of the agreement during Chief Eddy Okoye's tenure as President General of Aguleri Community Assembly, no action has been taken to address this disparity.
Furthermore, indications suggest that gas reserves may be present on the land, making it crucial for Aguleri to assert its rights and interests now to avoid future disputes over ownership.
We urge the AWF and relevant stakeholders to establish a committee to investigate this matter and propose an amicable solution for implementing the agreement. By doing so, we can honor the efforts of our predecessors and ensure that their labors are not in vain. A stitch in time saves nine.