By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The National Coordinator of the National Guide for Truth and Justice, Marcus Okafor, has rejected allegations circulating in some quarters that Senator Ned Nwoko was involved in land grabbing or instigated past unrest in Idumuje Ugboko, Delta State.

Okafor described the claims as unfounded, stating that available records and previous investigations do not support them.

He explained that the 90 hectares of land in question were set aside for the establishment of a Sports University and were approved in 2015 by the late traditional ruler of the community, HRM Obi Albert Nwoko, following consultations with leaders of the four constituent villages. The land was subsequently allocated to Linas International Limited, owned by Senator Nwoko.

Okafor said tensions in the community escalated only after disagreements emerged among factions within the palace following the monarch’s passing in February 2017. He noted that the resulting disputes led to a series of violent incidents, which left some residents displaced and property destroyed. Several individuals have since pursued legal redress over the matter.

He also expressed concern over what he described as media misrepresentations that, in his view, have distorted the sequence of events and mischaracterized parties involved in the crisis.

Okafor referenced incidents in which community leaders and residents suffered losses during the unrest, noting that court proceedings and petitions have continued for years.

He maintained that official findings have repeatedly affirmed the legality of the land allocation process. According to him, a police inquiry conducted under a former Inspector-General of Police and reviews by Delta State authorities both supported the validity of the land transfer. He also said that compensation was paid to farmers whose crops were affected.

Okafor added that claims involving a purportedly forged document attributed to the late monarch were resolved through judicial processes.

He further dismissed narratives linking Senator Nwoko or his family to unrelated incidents in the community, describing such claims as inaccurate.

Highlighting progress, he noted that the Sports University in Idumuje Ugboko is now in its third year of operation, contributing to local economic development and gaining attention beyond Nigeria.

According to him, with renewed interest in the Anioma State movement, stakeholders are now focused on Senator Nwoko’s legislative efforts and community development initiatives. He urged that all disagreements be addressed through lawful and constructive channels rather than through what he termed misinformation.

Okafor said the priority for Anioma people remains “progress, transformation, and justice,” and expressed confidence in continued support for development-oriented leadership in the region.