THE tranquil surroundings of Nila Station in the Shortlands Islands in the Western Province, have been disrupted and locals are now facing eviction orders prompting them to seek new land for settlement.
This follows a prolonged legal battle between the Roman Catholic Church and the residents who have long called Nila Island their home.
The protracted High Court case, spanning years, ultimately ruled in favor of the Church asserting its ownership of Nila Island.
As a result, the locals, who have resided on the island for decades, have been instructed to vacate their homes.
The dispute dates back to the mission era when the Church claimed to have been the first settler on the island, establishing its ownership over it.
In light of the court ruling, the Church exercised its authority to order the eviction of the local residents.
In an interview with Solomon Star yesterday, a resident of Nila Station, who requested anonymity shared the deep-rooted connection of the locals to the island.
The resident explained that their ancestors lived there for generations and the news of eviction delivered by the High Court late last year, leaves them grappling with the decision of where to relocate.
Expressing a mixture of sadness and concern, the local resident highlighted the significance of the Church’s historical permission for some residents to settle on Nila Island.
Now faced with displacement, the locals are urging both the Church and the FAMOA House (Council of Chiefs) to consider providing reserve land in Shortland as an alternative settlement.
“We are also indigenous people of Shortland, and both major entities, the FAMOA and the Church, should take this into consideration. Without a proper resolution, conflicts may arise in the future,” emphasized the concerned local.
Acknowledging the legal defeat in the court case, the local resident proposed the necessity for a fair agreement between FAMOA and the Church Mission to facilitate a smooth transition for the displaced residents.
Nila Station, currently owned by the Roman Catholic Church, houses essential facilities such as a big clinic, vocational school, a Church building and other properties.
Approximately 100-plus local residents, with permanent houses, are directly affected by the eviction order.
As the community ponders its future following the court order, the plea for understanding, generosity and a balanced solution is echoing through its sentiments.
The quest for a new settlement and the hope for an amicable resolution between the parties involved remain at the forefront of the residents’ concerns.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
