The allottees of the Ebonyi State University (EBSU) Pocket Layout have called on Governor Francis Nwifuru to intervene in the delay of the issuance of critical documents for lands they purchased under a government-approved scheme. Despite fulfilling all necessary requirements and paying relevant fees, the allottees have yet to receive their Deed of Conveyance/Lease and Certificate of Occupancy, essential for formalizing ownership of the land.
The petition, submitted on September 18, 2024, outlines the lengthy and rigorous process followed by the allottees to secure the land allocation. The allottees seek the governor’s help to ensure the state’s Ministry of Lands and Survey issues the government-approved beacon numbers, removes trespassers, and concludes the part-surrender process for the land.
The petition highlights the involvement of former Governor David Umahi’s administration and current Governor Nwifuru, who was Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly when the law on the EBSU Pocket Layout was passed. The allottees expressed concern that despite meeting all conditions, including participating in a transparent bidding process, they have yet to receive the required documentation.
The delay in issuing the beacon numbers has been attributed to claims that higher authorities have not properly authorized the issuance. Some allocation papers have also been withheld by Ministry of Lands and Survey staff, with no clear resolution despite multiple inquiries.
The allottees, who represent various organizations and businesses, are now urging Governor Nwifuru to take decisive action to resolve the issue and ensure they can legally secure their investments.