Residents of Umuagu Eziala Nsulu in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area have appealed to Abia State Governor Alex Otti to urgently intervene in the revitalization of the moribund Abia Palm Nigeria Limited, amid allegations of ongoing vandalism involving local officials and hoodlums.
In a public radio announcement, the community expressed outrage over the systematic destruction of vital equipment and machinery at the once-thriving palm plantation and processing facility, which previously employed thousands of Abians and Nigerians, providing economic livelihoods and shelter.
The latest incident sparking the outcry occurred in the early hours of Saturday, October 11, 2025. According to community sources, youths from Umuagu Eziala Nsulu were alerted by the Secretary to the Local Government to mobilize and intercept criminals and scrap dealers looting the site. Upon arrival, the youths reportedly discovered that members of a local security group—established by the local government and supervised by the current councillor—were allegedly overseeing and facilitating the vandalism.
Efforts by journalists to contact the Local Government Secretary and the head of the security outfit for comments were unsuccessful, as their phone lines did not connect at the time of this report.
The community has called on the state government to launch a thorough investigation into these allegations, aiming to unmask individuals posing as officials while undermining Governor Otti's administration. They accused the saboteurs of perpetrating crimes that directly sabotage efforts to revive dormant industries in the state.
While decrying the sabotage, residents praised Governor Otti's developmental achievements across Abia State and urged him to prioritize the revival of Abia Palm Nigeria. They emphasized that revitalizing the facility would create numerous job opportunities, boost local economy, and restore the site's former glory.
Abia Palm Nigeria, established decades ago, has been inactive for years due to neglect and mismanagement. Community leaders argue that its restoration aligns with the governor's agenda for industrial rebirth and youth empowerment. Authorities are yet to issue an official response to the allegations.
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