The Abia State Government has performed traditional rites for seven communities in Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas, whose lands have been earmarked for the Abia Medical City project.
The communities include Umuekwe, Umuochela, Amaekpu, Umukodu, Umuagu, Umueze, and Umuosi.
Speaking to the leaders of the communities, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Lands and Housing, Pastor Okorougo Aji, who represented the State Government, assured the communities of fair compensation.
He emphasized that the administration of Dr. Alex Otti is committed to a people-oriented approach, which necessitated the series of dialogues and consultations with the affected communities prior to performing the traditional rites.
Pastor Aji, who highlighted that extensive community engagements had been conducted with the communities giving their approval for the project to be sited on their lands, reiterated that the State Government’s development agenda is comprehensive and inclusive.
“I want to reassure you that compensation will be paid to every individual, family, or community whose land has been acquired,” Pastor Aji stated.
In their responses, the Mayor of Isiala Ngwa North LGA, Ambassador Innocent Uruakpa; the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers of Mbasaa, HRM Eze Ahamefula Amaba; the Chairman of Mbasaa Community, Mr. Chibunna Elijah; and Mr. Manger Dannie Ubani commended the State Government for its developmental strides.
They, however, appealed for the concerns of the people to be adequately addressed.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of seven cows, drinks, bags of rice, and monetary gifts to the communities as part of the traditional rites.
