The Akwa Ibom State Government has issued a strong rebuttal against recent claims over the ownership of the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve. It has also reiterated its unwavering support for the Federal Government's ambitious Coastal Highway project.
Government Clarifies Historical and Legal Position
In a statement released by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Uko Essien Udom, SAN, the government addressed what it termed false and misleading assertions by the Ekid People's Union. The government felt compelled to clarify the issue in the public interest, despite an ongoing court case filed by the same group.
The statement centered on a historic legal case often cited in the dispute. It clarified that the 1918 judgment by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in the case of Ntiaro and Ikpak v. Ibok Etok Akpan and Edoho Ekid did not award ownership of the Stubbs Creek land to any community. The final ruling simply dismissed the claims before it and did not grant title to any party. The government warned that any contrary interpretation is a distortion of the judicial record.
Colonial Origin and Current Legal Framework
The government detailed the legal history of the reserve, explaining that the colonial administration formally established it as a forest reserve through Forest Reserve Order No. 45 of 1930. This order was later amended in 1941, 1955, and 1962. Upon this reservation, the government acquired the principal rights to the land and has managed it according to the law ever since.
Reaffirming its constitutional authority, the state government cited the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) and the Land Use Act. These laws vest all land within the state in the Governor, who holds it in trust for the benefit of all Nigerians. Consequently, the government stated that claims of absolute ownership based solely on ancestral or customary grounds are subject to these overarching statutes.
Warning and Commitment to Development
The government categorically denied any allegations of fraud or misrepresentation related to the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve or investments within it. It issued a stern warning that it would pursue legal action against individuals or groups publishing false, misleading, or defamatory information that could undermine public trust or deter investment in Akwa Ibom.
In a move aligning with national development goals, the state government assured the Federal Government of its full cooperation on the Coastal Highway project. This includes granting unhindered access and Right of Way for the highway's construction through any part of the state.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the administration's commitment to the rule of law and resolving disputes through proper judicial channels. It urged all parties to avoid misleading the public and to allow the court process to run its course.
