Anambra vigilante group accused of ‘abducting’ 68-year-old chief, 4 relatives over land dispute
The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), has petitioned the Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, over the alleged arrest and detention of a 68-year-old chief and four family members by operatives of the state vigilante outfit, Operation Udo ga Achi.
In a petition dated June 10, 2026 and addressed to the Governor through his Special Adviser on Homeland Security, RULAAC said Chief John Nneli of Umudiani Village, Achalla, Awka North LGA was taken from his home alongside his younger brother, Charles Nneli, and three sons: Ejike, Ezebilo, and Obumneme Nneli.
According to the group, armed men arrived at Chief Nneli’s residence in two Sienna vehicles between 5:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. Wednesday and whisked the five away. The operation was allegedly conducted in the presence of community members involved in a longstanding land dispute with the chief.
RULAAC Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma said family members searched police stations without success before learning hours later that the victims were being held at the Lion Building, Awka, headquarters of the Anambra State Vigilante Group. He added that police authorities told the family they had no knowledge of any lawful arrest.
The group noted that Chief Nneli had petitioned the Commissioner of Police on April 13, 2026, warning of threats to his life and attempts to dispossess him of inherited land. The earlier petition alleged that influential persons in the community might misuse security agencies against him.
RULAAC listed Mr. Chukwugozie Chigbata, also known as “Angola”, and Mr. Ezewulu Nneli as persons reportedly among those who accompanied the operatives. Both are said to be parties to the land dispute.
“Of particular concern is the fact that the operation was conducted in the company of persons directly involved in a dispute with the victims,” the petition stated.
The organization asked the governor to clarify the legal basis for the arrests, state if any criminal offense is being investigated, and explain why Operation Udo ga Achi intervened in what it described as a civil land matter.
RULAAC urged the governor to order an immediate investigation, ensure the release of the detainees if no lawful basis exists, and direct that land disputes be resolved through courts. It also requested accountability for any abuse of authority.
