The Ufuma community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State is seeking the assistance of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo over concerns that their land may be taken for the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) project.
In a press statement issued in Awka, community members accused an indigene and the Chief Medical Director of NAUTH, Prof. Joseph Ugboaja, of trying to seize a large portion of their land for the hospital, claiming he intends to ultimately take it for himself.
Prof. Ugboaja has denied these allegations, explaining that there is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining the legitimate purpose for acquiring the land: constructing a new hospital branch.
The community expressed frustration over how the land is being acquired, alleging that Ugboaja has resorted to intimidation. They stated, “We are happy that an extension of NAUTH, Nnewi will be built in our village through the efforts of our illustrious son. It is a welcome development. But after the promise of the hospital and the land donation, some elders wisely decided to document the request for the land. This angered the Professor, leading to threats and attacks from youths allegedly connected to him.”
The elders reported that parents with children working at NAUTH were pressured to support the project unconditionally, or risk their children losing their jobs. They noted that some community members seeking proper documentation have fled Ufuma due to fear of violence.
The community leaders accused Ugboaja of disregarding the village constitution and removing local leaders who opposed his plans. They are now calling on Governor Soludo to step in before the situation escalates further.
In response, Ugboaja reiterated that the land was properly donated for the hospital, stating, “Some of our people are backward and worry about communal land appropriation. The governing council decided to establish the teaching hospital annex to expand healthcare services. The land acquired for the project has been properly gazetted, and an MOU has been signed to ensure it is used solely for the hospital.”
Regarding the claims of ousting village leaders, he explained, “Youths in the community have had issues with those managing communal land. A new leadership was installed this year, and conflicts arose, leading to the removal of the chairman. In all my meetings, I’ve encouraged peace in the community. As an elder, I can only advise them to do the right thing.”
