Anambra Police Commissioner urges residents to take land disputes to court, not police

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By Sunny A. David, Awka

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has appealed to residents to refrain from involving the Police in land and inheritance disputes, urging them instead to seek proper legal channels for resolution.

In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, CP Orutugu emphasized that land disputes are civil matters best handled by the courts.

He warned that bringing such issues to the Police often escalates tensions and contributes to breaches of peace, including avoidable violence and destruction of property.

Speaking during a strategic meeting held at the Anambra State Police Command Headquarters in Awka South, CP Orutugu highlighted the growing concern over individuals resorting to self-help in land-related conflicts.

He stressed that the role of the Police is to maintain law and order, not to mediate ownership claims or boundary disagreements.

The meeting, which aimed to strengthen Police community relations and promote adherence to the rule of law, was convened in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.

The IGP has previously instructed Police formations across the country to steer clear of civil matters, particularly those involving land ownership and inheritance.

Also in attendance were members of the Association of Presidents-General of Anambra Town Unions, representing various communities in the State. During the meeting, CP Orutugu reiterated the Police force’s commitment to staying within its legal mandate and warned officers against unauthorized involvement in civil disputes.

In response, the President of the Town Union Association praised the Commissioner’s leadership and pledged support in educating local communities on the importance of resolving land-related issues through the courts and other lawful means.

The session concluded with a joint commitment from the Police and community leaders to work together to promote peaceful conflict resolution, uphold justice, and ensure sustained peace across Anambra State.