Tension is mounting in Okpella, Okpella as residents under the umbrella of Ukhomuyio Concerned Citizens have accused BUA Cement of unlawful operations, land grabbing, and neglect of host community development obligations.
In a strongly worded statement circulating within the area, the group alleged that the company has engaged in practices they described as unjust, including the alleged dispossession of community and family lands. They also dismissed what they termed “media propaganda,” insisting that public relations efforts could not erase what they called deep-rooted grievances affecting the people of Okpella.
The residents further linked ongoing socio-political tensions involving certain influential figures to past actions they believe undermined local traditions and community structures, arguing that such developments reflect long-standing unresolved issues in the area.
Beyond the political undertones, the group raised concerns over worsening socio-economic conditions. They expressed sympathy for victims of insecurity in the community and for workers recently disengaged by the cement company. They also alleged that local contractors have been sidelined in favour of external interests, a situation they say has contributed to rising unemployment and economic hardship.
The statement further claimed that some lands belonging to individuals and families were allegedly acquired and resold without due process, deepening mistrust between residents and stakeholders.
The group also called on the Chairman of Rabiu Abdulsamad and BUA Group to urgently intervene and address the concerns of the host community. They emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, pointing to poor road networks, inadequate schools, and limited healthcare services despite the area’s rich natural resources.
Residents described what they called a paradox of resource abundance amid underdevelopment, questioning why communities hosting valuable mineral resources continue to face basic infrastructural deficits.
As tensions persist, stakeholders are calling for constructive engagement between the company, government authorities, and community leaders to prevent further escalation and promote sustainable development in Okpella and surrounding areas.
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