Mgbara Women Protest Proposed AfDB Agro-Industrial Project in Imo Community

More than 100 women from Mgbara Community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State have taken to the streets to oppose the proposed siting of an African Development Bank (AfDB)-backed agro-industrial project in their community.

The women marched through the community on Tuesday carrying placards and chanting songs as they demanded that the project be suspended until residents are properly consulted. The project is part of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) programme, which is being supported by the AfDB in partnership with the Federal and Imo State governments.

The protesters said their main concern was the alleged failure to involve the wider community before plans for the project were advanced. They insisted that any development involving communal land and livelihoods must have the backing of the people directly affected.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, former Mgbara Youth President Modrich Ajunwa said the community was formally rejecting the project under the current circumstances. He called on the AfDB to suspend further engagement until the concerns of residents had been addressed through an open consultation process.

Ajunwa also warned the bank against relying on assurances from a few politicians, traditional leaders or community representatives claiming to speak for Mgbara. He argued that decisions affecting the community’s land, ancestral heritage and economic future should not be made without verifiable evidence of broad public consent.

The former youth leader said the proposed development had already created tension and divisions within the community. He warned that proceeding without resolving the dispute could worsen the situation and undermine the principles of community participation and sustainable development.

Ajunwa stressed that the protesters were not opposed to development itself. However, he said many residents depend on farming and could lose their livelihoods if land is acquired without proper engagement and safeguards. “When they take the land, they take our means of livelihood,” he said.

The community appealed for direct dialogue with the AfDB and government authorities, saying residents should have a clear role in determining the project’s future. Ajunwa said the people remained committed to peaceful and lawful engagement but would continue to defend their communal and ancestral interests.