In a proactive move towards enhancing security, urban development and fostering a safe environment for all residents, the Mayor of Umuahia North LGA, Chief Victor Ikeji, has disclosed plans to demolish and reconstruct major shanties in Umuahia, the capital city.
Mayor Ikeji disclosed this when he conducted the Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Kenechukwu Onwumelie, to inspect major shanties in the city center.
Some of the shanties visited include the bicycle repair workshop located behind Okigwe park and the former Ohuhu Motor Park, which has become a haven for criminals and illicit drug dealers within the state capital.
Conducting the Police Boss round the shanties, Mayor Ikeji highlighted the need to replace the shanties with facilities such as motor parks and markets.
He emphasized that the redevelopment project aims to relocate traders and transport operators from congested areas like Cooperative and Ishi-gate axis, thereby reducing traffic gridlocks and enhancing the city’s aesthetics.
He noted that there is a need to relocate transport operators and traders to give them a more dignifying place to trade and operate.
Mayor Ikeji also stressed the security benefits of demolishing the shanties, noting that it would displace criminals and drug peddlers from the city centre
He echoed Governor Alex Otti’s vision to transform Abia, particularly Umuahia, into a secure and dignified place to reside.
Also speaking, CP Kene Onwumelie while supporting the Mayor’s stance, affirmed that the shanties servebas a notorious hub for criminal activities and drug trafficking in the state capital.
He emphasized the importance of either removing or repurposing the shanties for the greater good of Abia and added that it would be in the best interest of the state.
Onwuemelie who promised to work closely with Mayor Ikeji to eradicate all forms of criminal elements from Umuahia, assured of the partnership of the Nigerian Police during the demolition and reconstruction process.
