A wave of protests has engulfed the semi-urban town of Nbawsi Nsulu in Isiala Ngwa North, Abia State, as women rallied against the relocation of the proposed Abia Airport project.
This marks the second protest in two weeks, following a similar demonstration at Umuezenta Nsulu, with unrest spreading to other villages, including Umuosu Nsulu.
Contrary to widespread belief that the Nsulu community opposes the airport project, Nze Chukwudinma Ikpo, a resident, clarified that Nsulu had already donated land for the initiative.
“The certificate of occupancy has been issued by the Abia State government,” he said, emphasizing that the protest stems from the government’s decision to abandon the original site.
He explained, “The latest protest is pivoted on the fact that the Abia State government abandoned the site, said not to have encumbrances and not closer to residential areas, and is making attempts to acquire land in another area, closer to homes and rotational farmland.”
Reports indicate that state officials have bypassed genuine landowners, opting to negotiate with individuals who lack legitimate claims to the land. This has further fueled tensions within the community.
On Monday, protesting women blocked government officials from entering the Umuomainta Women Development Hall, where a meeting was scheduled with a select few individuals.
