For over forty years, Dr. Newton Jibunoh has stood as a strong advocate for the Anioma people and their land. He is the founder of the Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE) and has become known for his bold predictions and active involvement in protecting his community. Dr. Jibunoh's commitment to Anioma goes beyond appreciating its rich soil and vibrant culture; he fights to safeguard the community from powerful groups, land thieves, and corrupt systems that threaten its very existence. Despite facing threats to his life, he encourages his people to reject quick profits and instead defend the land that shapes their identity. In an interview with Rita Oyiboka, he discusses the serious crisis Anioma faces and calls on the community to unite and protect their heritage before it is lost.
When asked what makes Anioma unique and why he is passionate about its protection, Jibunoh emphasizes that Anioma represents more than just land; it embodies their history and identity. He has traveled widely and believes that no other place compares to Anioma's fertile and welcoming nature. The soil has sustained generations without the need for artificial support, thanks to traditional farming practices. The community is known for its agriculture, with over 90% of families engaged in farming, producing a variety of crops like yams, vegetables, tomatoes, and peppers.
Jibunoh continues to share his concerns about the land's future, stating that his warnings about land mismanagement and political issues have often proven true. He describes Anioma as a vibrant land, rich in resources, and filled with welcoming people, yet he warns that powerful cartels are pushing land grabbers into the area. These individuals use forged documents to deceive elders and take land that rightfully belongs to the community. They buy land cheaply and sell it at inflated prices without any intention of developing it, often using cult members to secure their claims. This exploitation is threatening the stability of the Anioma society.
Addressing the tactics employed by these cartels, Jibunoh reveals they use fake powers of attorney signed by unaware elderly individuals. There are numerous ongoing court cases in Anioma State, and recent violence has escalated, including the murder of a chief in Akwukwu-Igbo who stood up against land theft.
In a recent meeting organized by the police, community elders, land grabbers, and affected farmers gathered to discuss the situation. The community is divided over the issue. At a tense town hall meeting, Jibunoh even knelt to plead for peace, an act that holds significant meaning in their culture. A representative from the Department of State Service (DSS) also suggested a peaceful resolution to the ongoing land disputes.
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