The Onitsha Sports Club, a historic recreational facility built by British colonial authorities in 1924, is at the centre of a growing dispute over land ownership.
Located in the serene Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Onitsha, the club was initially established for government officials.
However, recent events have stirred tensions between the club and the Ekwerekwu family of Okposieke, Onitsha, who originally leased the land to colonial officials for 75 years.
The controversy erupted when the perimeter fence of the club was demolished by agents allegedly hired by Barrister Harold Ekwerekwu, a member of the Ekwerekwu family and their legal representative. Barrister Ekwerekwu claims the land belongs to his family, having been inherited from their forefathers, and cites evidence of the expiration of the original 1924 lease agreement as grounds for reclaiming the property. The family also asserts that they have obtained a court order to support their claim.
Despite the rising tensions, the Onitsha Police Area Commander, Gregory Itobore, has emphasized the importance of police neutrality in the matter, stressing that law enforcement’s role is to maintain peace and order without taking sides.
Both the Onitsha Sports Club members and the Ekwerekwu family have expressed a desire for a peaceful resolution. The members of the elite club have previously staged peaceful protests at the Government House, the State House of Assembly, and the Police Headquarters in Awka, urging respect for agreements and caution to prevent further damage to the property.
Calls have been made for Barrister Harold Ekwerekwu to pursue the family’s claims with vigilance but also with a commitment to peace. Likewise, the management of Onitsha Sports Club is encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement and other relevant bodies to ensure that the dispute does not escalate further.
The police, led by Commander Itobore, continue to play a crucial role in upholding peace in Onitsha and its surroundings. Their ongoing commitment to neutrality and wisdom in handling the situation is recognized and appreciated by the community.
As both parties work towards a peaceful settlement, there is hope that a civilized resolution can be achieved, honouring the legacy of the Onitsha Sports Club and respecting the rights of the Ekwerekwu family.
