CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF AWKA CLEARS AIR ON TENANTS’ EVICTION, SAYS COURT ORDERED EXERCISE

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Catholic Diocese of Awka has clarified the controversy surrounding the eviction of tenants from one of its properties, stressing that the action was carried out by a court bailiff and not the Church.

Some affected tenants had alleged that their belongings were destroyed during the eviction exercise and threatened legal action.

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Addressing journalists in Awka, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Charles Ndubuisi, explained that the eviction followed a court judgment in favour of the Diocese after a prolonged legal dispute over ownership of the property.

According to him, the property, originally owned by a deceased priest, was illegally taken over by one Mr. Chidi Osakwe, who allegedly rented it out to tenants without authorization.

“We took the civil and humane path of seeking redress in court rather than using force,” Fr. Ndubuisi said. “Both Mr. Osakwe and the occupants were served quit notices, but after they failed to vacate within the stipulated time, the court granted an execution order. The bailiff enforced and executed the judgment with police assistance. The Church was not involved in the enforcement.”

While sympathizing with the tenants who may have been misled, the Chancellor noted that those who have approached the Diocese are being given the opportunity to sign new tenancy agreements. He encouraged others affected to do the same, assuring that “our hands are wide open to welcome them.”

Fr. Ndubuisi also cautioned against spreading false narratives about the Church on social media, urging for peace and dialogue over the matter.