Family seeks compensation for demolished property in Akwa Ibom

Introduction: Petitions Public Complaints Commission

 A bitter seven-year conflict between a bereaved family and the Akwa Ibom State Government over a demolished property has been formally escalated to the Public Complaints Commission, with the family alleging that the wrongful action led to the owner’s death.

The case centers on a one-storey building in Mbioto Ekpene Ituen Village, Etinan Local Government Area.

State government agents demolished it in 2016 during the construction of the Etinan-Mbioto-Awa Road.

Details of the Demolished Property

According to a formal complaint filed by P.A.N. Street Solicitors, the property belonged to their patriarch, late Mr. Akpabio Ikon. 

The law firm, acting for their client, Elder Nkereuwem Ikon, the Bonafede next of kin and brother of the deceased, paints a tragic picture of the event’s aftermath.

Impact of the Demolition

Claiming the demolition “caused immense hardship and emotional distress, ultimately leading to Mr. Akpabio Ikon’s death.”

Following the demolition, the state government reportedly acknowledged its action and offered to pay compensation.

Compensation Claim and Valuation

The family then engaged a registered Estate Surveyor and Valuer, Mr. Frank Ikpe & Associates.

The estate surveyor and valuer Mr. Frank Ikpe & Associates prepared a valuation report that placed the market value of the demolished building at N36,499,000.00 (Thirty-six Million, Four Hundred and Ninety-nine Thousand Naira) as of March 2016.

Lack of Compensation Payment

However, the promise of compensation turned into years of silence.

The family’s legal team confirms that despite several representations, “the Ministry of Works has failed to pay the compensation.”

They detail their futile efforts, noting, “We have formally written to the Ministry and sent reminders.

But they have refused to respond.”

Formal Complaint to Public Complaints Commission

Frustrated by this impasse, the solicitors have now lodged a formal complaint with the Public Complaints Commission.

Urging an investigation into the “wrongful demolition”, and compensation.

In their appeal, they respectfully call on the Commission to “compel the Ministry of Works to pay adequate compensation to our client in line with the current market value.

To ensure justice, we direct our Client to address the grievance immediately.

The law firm expressed its confidence in the process.

Stating they trust in the Commission’s “constitutional and statutory mandate to protect citizens against administrative injustice.”

Supporting Documentation

Key documentary evidence supports the complaint.

Including a photograph of the building before demolition, the professional valuation report, and copies of all correspondence sent to the Ministry of Works.

Government Response Status

As of now, the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Works has not reacted to the development.

Prof. Eno Ibanga, Commissioner for Works, did not answer calls and text messages as this report was filed.