The University of the Nation, located in Abara-Etche, Rivers State, has voiced serious concerns over ongoing land-grabbing activities in the area. According to the institution, these encroachments pose a direct threat to the university’s integrity and future.
In a press briefing held at the university, Project Manager Moses Salvation revealed that certain members of the Rivers State Police Command have allegedly been involved in these activities.
Salvation detailed how the land grabbers, operating under the protection of armed thugs and uniformed policemen, are steadily encroaching upon university property.
Salvation described the situation as a significant threat and appealed for intervention from both the Federal and Rivers State governments. He emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “We stand before you today as representatives of the University of the Nation, bringing with us a grave and pressing concern that threatens not only the integrity of our institution but also the very fabric of justice and order within our community.”
He further explained the alarming rise in aggression from these land grabbers, who, he claimed, “have become emboldened, operating with a shocking disdain for the rule of law, seemingly under the protection of certain members of the Rivers State Police Command, particularly from the Anti-Cultism Unit.” Salvation added that the land grabbers lack valid documentation to support their attempts to seize university land.
“These land grabbers’ primary tools have been armed thugs and corrupt security agents, who appear willing to overlook the law for personal gain,” Salvation continued, highlighting the impact on the university community.
“This aggressive encroachment threatens not only the property rights of the University of the Nation but also the future of countless students and staff who rely on this institution for their education and livelihood.”
He appealed to both state and federal authorities for immediate intervention, stressing the importance of halting these “criminal activities” and restoring order. “We are rallying together to expose this appalling situation and demand immediate intervention from both State and Federal Governments.
“It is imperative that those in positions of authority recognize the seriousness of these criminal activities and take decisive action to restore the rule of law.”
He also called for strengthened security for the university to prevent further encroachment and ensure that those responsible face legal consequences.
“To protect the rights of educational institutions,” Salvation said, “it is essential that the government demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding educational establishments against such egregious acts of theft. Hold corrupt officials accountable: comprehensive accountability must be enforced against any law enforcement personnel found to be complicit in these acts.
“We refuse to be silenced or intimidated by thuggery and corruption. The University of the Nation stands firm in its commitment to safeguarding its heritage, its land, and the future of our students.”
Salvation added that the university is prepared to defend its rights lawfully, calling on community leaders, stakeholders, and the public to support their cause. “Together, we can protect our rights and ensure that justice prevails,” he stated.
In response, Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, reported that Commissioner of Police Mustapha Mohammed has ordered an immediate investigation into the matter.
She appealed to the university to provide further information to aid in identifying any involved officers. “The Commander of the Anti-Cultism Unit has denied taking part in any land-grabbing activities,” Iringe-Koko stated, adding that the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (SCIID) in Port Harcourt, alongside the Anti-Cultism Unit, is conducting a thorough investigation as instructed by the Commissioner.
