Controversy Surrounds OCDA Proposed Demolition of Late Apostle Augustine Ukaegbu’s Family House in Nekede
By Anselem Anokwute | Owerri
The family of the late Customs retiree, Apostle Augustine Ukaegbu, has raised concerns over a demolition notice served on their ancestral home located at No. 11 Bus Stop, Old Nekede Road, Owerri West LGA of Imo State, allegedly marked by the Owerri Capital Development Authority (OCDA).
Speaking to reporters, Elder Uzoegwu Ukaegbu, the eldest surviving member of the Ukaegbu family and head of the Umuekwema Umualum Nekede Autonomous Community, clarified that the house in question is a family property and not subject to demolition, especially at this sensitive time following the passing of Apostle Augustine who is a Senior Apostle in the Cherubim Church
Elder Ukaegbu confirmed that the family had only recently begun preparations for a proper burial for the late patriarch, who died on March 1, 2025. He expressed concern that demolition plans could destabilize the family further, urging all parties to respect traditional processes.
“I am the eldest in the family and though I am no longer strong enough to physically resist the OCDA, I have advised the children to prioritize the burial of their father. Discussions about property and inheritance should come after,” he said.
Tensions appear to be brewing within the polygamous family, with Mr. Emmanuel Ukaegbu — son of the late Apostle Augustine from his second wife, Madam Stella Ukaegbu — alleging foul play by his elder half-brother, Mr. Godspower Ukaegbu, Sister Augusta Ukaegbu and his mother, Madam Grace Ukaegbu.
According to Emmanuel, the crisis began after their father’s passing. He claims that the elder brother allegedly took control of the deceased’s remains, moving the body from one mortuary to another without family consensus and without releasing the autopsy results. He further alleged that Godspower invited OCDA officials to demolish the family house without informing the entire family.
“We were shocked to find two separate demolition notices from OCDA, both bearing different signatures. This property is the only remaining family house, and the tenants, including my mother, have not been given any relocation options,” Emmanuel said.
He stressed that the family’s priority remains the peaceful burial of their father, as advised by community elders including Elder Uzoegwu Ukaegbu. “My mother, Madam Stella, took care of our father till his death. She is a peace-loving woman and wants all of us to come together as one family,” he added.
When contacted, the General Manager of OCDA, Hon. Nkemakolam Franklin Nzewodo, confirmed that the demolition notice originated from his agency. However, he insisted the request was initiated by a member of the family.
“We received an application from someone representing the family requesting demolition and redevelopment of the property. As per procedure, the building was marked accordingly. There was no objection from any family member until journalists began asking questions,” Nzewodo said.
He described the house as a dilapidated structure in need of redevelopment, noting that the OCDA only acts based on proper applications and does not get involved in internal family disputes.
When approached for comment, Mr. Godspower Ukaegbu, identified as the first son of the late Chief Augustine, declined to speak in detail. He dismissed the inquiries, stating that the person seeking information is a stranger to the family.
“I don’t have time to talk about this. Anyone who involves my name in this matter should be ready for the consequences,” he said tersely, before confirming that he is indeed the first son of the deceased.
As tensions rise within the Ukaegbu family, elders and community leaders are calling for restraint and unity. All parties are urged to prioritize the burial of the late Apostle Augustine Ukaegbu before delving into property matters, while ensuring that due process is followed with regard to any actions involving the OCDA.
