Historical Memory Meets Politics In Dispute Over Asaba Memorial Property
Background to the Controversy
A renewed debate has emerged in Delta State following a public letter by Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze, raising concerns over the alleged conversion of a property linked to the October 1967 Asaba massacre memorial into a political facility.
The letter, addressed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other stakeholders, highlights deep sensitivities surrounding the historical significance of the site and calls for urgent intervention.
Claims Over Memorial Project
Chief Nduka-Eze, who chairs the Asaba Memorial Trust, outlined a sequence of engagements between the Asaba community and former House of Representatives member, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, regarding plans to develop a memorial centre in honour of victims of the massacre.
According to him, the project initially received legislative backing, with an estimated allocation of between ₦450 million and ₦500 million to support preliminary development. The funds were reportedly intended to secure land and begin construction of a befitting memorial.
However, the situation took a different turn when the project scope was reportedly reduced to a smaller memorial hall.
Allegations of Ownership and Use
The controversy centres on claims that the land used for the project was privately owned by Hon. Elumelu, a detail the community alleges was not disclosed during negotiations.
Chief Nduka-Eze further stated that the structure, initially described as a memorial facility, was later repurposed and branded for political use, raising concerns about breach of trust.
The development, he argued, contradicts earlier assurances that the project would serve as a sacred memorial to victims of the 1967 tragedy.
Appeal to Government and Stakeholders
The Asaba Memorial Trust has appealed to Governor Oborevwori and other political actors to carefully review the situation, stressing the emotional and historical weight attached to the massacre.
The group warned that the matter goes beyond politics, touching on collective memory, justice, and respect for over 1,000 victims.
Call for Resolution and Accountability
Chief Nduka-Eze urged all parties involved to act with sensitivity and responsibility, suggesting that corrective steps—including possible restitution—be considered.
He also called for an apology where necessary, while maintaining that the ultimate goal is to preserve the integrity of the memorial project.
Hon. Ndudi Elumelu has yet to publicly respond to the allegations.
