Abia State begins payment to Nsulu landowners after protests, assuring full compensation and action against corruption in the process

Abia State government has begun payments to landowners in Nsulu, Isiala Ngwa North LGA, following last week’s protest over unpaid compensations.

Also read: Plateau Killings: Gov Mutfwang Orders Crackdown on Perpetrators

The protest, which took place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, saw villagers threaten to reclaim portions of the 1,025 hectares acquired by the state if payments were not settled.

In a statement on Tuesday, Commissioner for Lands Chaka Chukwumerije confirmed that payments for lands outside the airport runway commenced on February 23, 2026.

He added that farmers whose properties were on the airport runway—including the villages of Umuala, Umuomainta, Umuezeukwu, Umuode, Umuosu, and Ubaha—had already received full compensation.

Chukwumerije said a town hall meeting held on February 18 informed the community of the final compensation plans.

Residents outside the runway were given time to review the published list of beneficiaries and submit claims.

The commissioner reassured affected villagers that all compensation would be paid in full.

He warned that any corrupt practices involving government staff or community members would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Also read: Alex Iwobi Shines in Premier League Team of the Week Honour

He urged claimants to register their names at the Ministry of Lands to ensure full payment.