An Imo State-based property developer, Engr. Bernard Anyanwu Nzerem, has raised an alarm over the demolition of his multi-billion-naira commercial complex located at No. 1 Naze/Federal Polytechnic Junction, Owerri North LGA, by officials of the Imo State Government.
The developer, who spoke to journalists in Owerri, said the demolished shopping mall, valued at N2.2 billion, represented his lifetime investment. According to him, the demolition was carried out without notice or legal justification, despite his possession of all necessary approvals and land documents.
Nzerem accused the Commissioner for Science, Technology and Engineering, Ikenna Elezianya, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, of leading the operation which was executed in his absence while he was in Lagos for a professional training.
“The structure was demolished unlawfully,” Nzerem stated, “despite having all valid documents including Certificate of Occupancy, Power of Attorney, and others submitted to the Secretary to the State Government, Office of the Commissioner of Police, and even the Governor’s Office.”
He further explained that the land was lawfully acquired in 2010 from MiTech Nigeria Limited, which had earlier purchased the property from the Naze community in 1982. All seven clans of Naze had endorsed the sale, he noted.
“The entire development included a modern business plaza and shopping mall, legally approved by relevant authorities. Yet, the structures were pulled down with the use of armed police officers and unidentified youths operating heavy machinery,” he lamented.
Nzerem disclosed that five of his workers, including a driver, were arrested and detained at Tiger Base for five days during the demolition exercise. Over 60 local youths employed in the plaza have now lost their jobs.
“This is not just an attack on my investment, it is a brutal act of injustice. I am emotionally devastated and financially ruined,” he said, appealing to Governor Hope Uzodinma to intervene, investigate the matter, and ensure he is compensated accordingly.
In his reaction, Commissioner Elezianya confirmed the demolition, stating it was carried out under the directives of the Governor as part of the state’s transportation infrastructure project, which includes establishing three Central Bus Terminals in Owerri.
According to the Commissioner, “The land is officially designated for government use. The structures erected on it were illegal and based on outdated documents. The Surveyor General and Ministry of Lands have both verified this.”
Elezianya dismissed the allegations against him and Nwaneri as “unfounded and defamatory,” advising Nzerem to pursue compensation through the appropriate channels rather than engage in media campaigns.
He also urged journalists to practice investigative journalism, stressing the need to prioritize public interest over sensationalism.
As the controversy unfolds, stakeholders and observers in the state await the government’s next move regarding the highly contested land and Nzerem’s demand for justice and compensation.
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