Our Correspondent
Mild tension is building in Awka, the Anambra State capital, following confirmation that the Catholic Diocese of Awka and human rights activist, Comrade Osita Obi, will appear before a magistrate court in Amawbia on October 31, 2025.
The matter, which sources say stems from a lingering disagreement between both parties, comes less than two weeks to the November 8 governorship election in the state, heightening public interest due to Obi’s strong ties to the Soludo administration.
Comrade Obi, who also serves as the Coordinator of the Recover Nigeria Project, has in recent months been involved in several advocacy efforts aimed at reforming the state’s transport sector in collaboration with the government. His open and outspoken stance on social and civic issues has made him one of the most visible activists in Anambra.
While details of the current court process remain before the magistrate court, it was gathered that the development followed a disagreement relating to the ownership and management of a commercial property within Awka. The issue reportedly involved the eviction of some occupants from the premises, one of whom was said to be Obi’s spouse.
In previous exchanges, both parties had made contrasting claims about the events that led to the dispute. However, legal observers have cautioned against further public commentary since the matter has now been formally filed before a court of competent jurisdiction.
When contacted, a senior official of the Awka Catholic Diocese confirmed that the matter was before the court and expressed confidence that justice would take its natural course. He, however, declined to speak further on the details, saying it would be inappropriate to do so while the case is pending.
Similarly, Comrade Obi, when reached by The Razor, acknowledged awareness of the court process and said he would respond appropriately through legal channels. “The matter is already before the court, so I will allow the law to take its course,” he said.
Public interest in the case has grown not only because of the parties involved but also due to its timing. With Anambra preparing for a governorship election on November 8, some residents have expressed concern that the situation could be misinterpreted or politicised.
A civil society analyst, Mr. Tochukwu Nwafor, who spoke to our correspondent advised against politicising the issue, stressing that it should be treated purely as a legal matter between two parties. “People should allow the court to do its work without unnecessary speculation or political colouration,” he said.
The Awka Catholic Diocese remains one of the most influential religious institutions in Anambra, while Obi has built a reputation as a social crusader often vocal on governance and public interest issues. Their face-off, therefore, naturally draws significant public attention.
As of press time, court officials confirmed that both parties had been duly notified of the October 31 date for appearance before Magistrate Court 4, Amawbia. Security sources in Awka also hinted that precautionary measures might be taken to ensure peace around the court premises on the day of the sitting.
Residents have expressed hope that the matter will be resolved peacefully and that the proceedings will help clarify the facts behind the controversy.
For now, both the Awka Catholic Diocese and Comrade Obi appear to have adopted a restrained approach, awaiting the outcome of the legal process.
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