Tension is mounting in Awka, the Anambra State capital, as the Catholic Diocese of Awka and human rights activist, Comrade Osita Obi, are set to appear before the Magistrate Court in Amawbia on October 31, 2025.
According to sources, the case arises from a lingering dispute between both parties. The development comes less than two weeks before the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State, heightening public interest due to Comrade Obi’s perceived closeness to the Soludo administration.
Comrade Obi, who also serves as the Coordinator of the Recover Nigeria Project, has in recent months spearheaded advocacy initiatives aimed at reforming the state’s transport sector in collaboration with the government. Known for his outspoken activism and commitment to social justice, Obi has built a reputation as a defender of the underprivileged and a vocal critic of public maladministration.
Although details of the ongoing legal process remain sub judice, it was reliably gathered that the dispute stems from issues relating to the ownership and management of a commercial property in Awka. The conflict reportedly escalated after a petition allegedly by the Catholic Diocese to the police accusing Obi’s wife of involvement in an abduction case. The matter further deepened following the eviction of certain occupants from the said property, one of whom was reportedly Obi’s spouse.
In earlier exchanges, both parties made conflicting claims regarding the sequence of events that led to the current impasse. However, legal experts have advised restraint in public commentary, noting that the matter is now before a court of competent jurisdiction and should be allowed to follow due legal process.
When contacted, a senior official of the Awka Catholic Diocese confirmed the pendency of the matter in court, expressing confidence that justice would prevail. The official, however, declined further comment, citing the sub judice principle, which discourages public discussion of active court proceedings.
Similarly, Comrade Obi, in a brief telephone interview with our reporter, acknowledged awareness of the court case and assured that he would respond through appropriate legal channels.
“The matter is already before the court, so I will allow the law to take its course,” he stated.
Public interest in the case continues to grow, not only because of the identities of the parties involved but also due to its timing. With Anambra gearing up for the November 8 governorship election, observers fear the case could be politically misinterpreted or weaponised.
A civil society analyst, Mr. Tochukwu Nwafor, urged the public to refrain from politicising the matter, emphasising that it should be treated purely as a legal dispute between private parties.
“People should allow the court to do its work without unnecessary speculation or political colouration,” he advised.
The Awka Catholic Diocese remains one of the most influential religious institutions in Anambra State, while Comrade Obi is widely regarded as a prominent social crusader. Their legal face-off has therefore will attract significant public and media attention.
As of press time, court officials confirmed that both parties had been duly served and are expected to appear before Magistrate Court 4, Amawbia, on October 31. Security sources in Awka also hinted that precautionary measures may be taken to maintain peace and order around the court premises during the proceedings.
Residents have expressed hope that the matter will be resolved peacefully and transparently, and that the judicial process will shed light on the underlying issues fueling the dispute.
For now, both the Awka Catholic Diocese and Comrade Osita Obi appear to have adopted a measured and cautious approach, awaiting the court’s determination of the matter.
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