Civil Society Organization Demands Independent Investigation Into Allegations Against Enugu Commissioner
The Network of Advocacy for Positive Impact Initiative (NAPII) has issued a strong call for an independent and transparent investigation into multiple allegations raised by the public concerning Ezeh Lawrence Ozoemena, the Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology. In a formal statement released on Thursday and signed by Executive Secretary Comrade William Bassey, the civil society organization emphasized that this demand is essential to uphold due process, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Allegations of Land Transaction Irregularities
According to NAPII, the organization has received numerous complaints and petitions over recent months from individuals and community representatives alleging serious irregularities in land transactions and property disputes. These allegations reportedly involve properties connected, either directly or indirectly, to Commissioner Ozoemena or entities associated with him.
One particularly contentious case highlighted by the organization involves a disputed property in Port Harcourt. The property was reportedly gifted by a father to his daughter but allegedly sold without her consent to a third party. This matter, said to involve members of the Woherem family, has reportedly escalated intra-family tensions significantly.
NAPII noted that aspects of this specific dispute are currently before the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, with a hearing scheduled for March 11, 2026. The organization stressed that all such issues should be resolved exclusively through lawful judicial and investigative processes rather than through extrajudicial means.
Additional Concerns and Legal Framework
Beyond the land-related concerns, NAPII revealed that some petitioners have also alleged instances of intimidation or undue pressure linked to these disputes. The organization maintained that such claims, if substantiated through proper lawful inquiry, would warrant serious legal consequences under Nigerian law.
The civil society group further referenced public allegations of possible financial impropriety but clarified that it lacks the authority or capacity to verify such claims independently. Therefore, NAPII urged relevant statutory bodies to examine any formally submitted petitions in strict accordance with established due process procedures.
Calls for Multi-Agency Action
Specifically, NAPII called upon multiple government entities to take appropriate action:
- The Federal Government and Enugu State Government to ensure proper oversight
- The Nigeria Police Force and appropriate land administration authorities to conduct fair, evidence-based reviews of all formally submitted land-related complaints
- The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to assess any financial misconduct allegations where jurisdictionally appropriate
Protection of Rights and Due Process
In addition to calling for investigations, NAPII emphasized the need for adequate protection for all parties involved in these matters. This includes complainants, witnesses, and the subject of the allegations themselves. The organization stressed that safety, fairness, and respect for constitutional rights must be maintained throughout any investigation or court proceedings.
"Allegations alone do not constitute proof of wrongdoing," the organization stated clearly in its declaration. NAPII added that while credible claims raised by citizens deserve lawful scrutiny, the rights and reputations of all individuals must be safeguarded until competent authorities determine the facts through proper legal channels.
Commitment to Good Governance
NAPII reaffirmed its fundamental commitment to promoting good governance, peaceful dispute resolution, and public confidence in Nigeria's democratic institutions. The organization noted that the entire nation stands to benefit when legitimate concerns are addressed through transparent and lawful channels rather than through rumor or speculation.
The civil society group emphasized that its position is guided by the principle that all individuals are entitled to the presumption of innocence as guaranteed under Nigerian law. The allegations against Commissioner Ozoemena remain unproven, and NAPII's call for investigation is specifically framed within this legal context of due process and evidentiary standards.
