Rep. Flomo Calls for House Intervention Amid Sanniquellie Land Ownership Controversy

Nimba County District #2 Representative, Hon. Nyahn G. Flomo, has raised an urgent alarm before the House of Representatives, calling for immediate legislative intervention in what he described as a “disturbing and unlawful attempt” by the Ministry of National Defense to evict residents of Sanniquellie City, Nimba County.Addressing plenary, Rep. Flomo disclosed that his office has received multiple reports alleging that authorities from the Ministry of Defense are attempting to remove peaceful residents from homes and parcels of land claimed as part of the Sanniquellie Military Barracks.

According to him, citizens have expressed fear and uncertainty as ministry officials reportedly assert that the disputed land is government-owned.While acknowledging the Land Rights Act of 2018—which categorizes government land and outlines lawful procedures for land administration—Rep. Flomo emphasized that “no branch of government is exempt from following the legal procedures governing land ownership or eviction.”He stressed that all claims to land, including those made by state institutions, must be supported by verifiable documentary evidence such as deeds, public land certificates, survey maps, or other legally recognized titles.

“The current approach risks causing undue hardship, creating fear and instability, and potentially violating the rights of citizens who may also hold legitimate claims to their properties,” Rep. Flomo warned.He further revealed that previous efforts by his office to initiate dialogue with the Ministry of Defense had yielded no substantive response, prompting his call for immediate legislative action.Rep. Flomo reaffirmed his commitment to accountability and due process in resolving land disputes. “Our duty is to ensure that the laws we pass are respected by all, including the government itself,” he stated.The Nimba County lawmaker declared zero tolerance for citizens losing their homes without proper legal procedures, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law. 

“We cannot stand idly by while citizens are faced with the loss of their homes without due process,” he added.Rep. Flomo petitioned the House to mandate the Ministry of National Defense to provide clarity regarding the land dispute, signaling his commitment to transparency and legal accountability.He urged his colleagues to treat the matter with urgency and ensure that the Ministry provides the requested clarification promptly.Following deliberations, the plenary of the House of Representatives mandated the Committee on National Defense to investigate the matter and report back within one week.

Author: Victor Quaye