Awka Catholic Diocese denies eviction, destruction of tenants properties

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The recent eviction of tenants from a property along Jerome Udorji Secretariat Road in Awka, Anambra State, was not directly related to the Catholic Diocese of Awka, the Diocese has confirmed.

With the help of police officials, the church claimed that the court’s bailiff was the only one carrying out the exercise, which also resulted in the destruction of building occupants’ property.

Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Ndubisi, the diocese’s chancellor, stated at a press conference in Awka on Thursday that the eviction was the result of a lengthy legal battle over land ownership, which the court decided in the Diocese’s favor.

The church fought in court to recover the property from a guy who was allegedly a relative of the priest who inherited it because it was believed to be the property of a deceased priest.

Ndubisi claims that after learning that a man named Mr. Chidi Osakwe had allegedly taken over the building and rented it out to tenants without permission, the diocese decided to follow the proper procedures.

“We took the civil and humane path of seeking redress in court rather than using force,” Fr. Ndubisi stated.

He clarified that Mr. Osakwe and the “unknown persons” inhabiting the property had both received quit notices, and the court had ordered their removal after they had not left within the allotted time.

“The bailiff enforced and executed the judgment because the court granted the execution order. The Church was not involved in the enforcement,” he stressed.

Fr. Ndubisi said people who have approached the Diocese are being given the chance to sign fresh leasing agreements, while also expressing concern for renters who could have been duped into renting the property.

“Our hands are wide open to welcome them,” he said, encouraging those who are impacted to follow suit.

On social media, the Diocesan Chancellor also issued a warning against disseminating “false narratives” about the Church, advocating for dialogue and peace instead.

In the meantime, Fr. Ndubisi revealed that Mr. Osakwe is being charged with a crime before the Awka Magistrate Court.

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