The Director General, Greater Ohafia Development Authority(GODA), Engr. Obinna Odum, today embarked on a crucial engagement with traders and business operators in Isiukwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, urging them to evacuate encroachments on major roads and prioritize safety measures.
During the visit, Engr. Odum condemned the presence of shop extensions obstructing major roads, particularly around the busy Acara Junction. He directed the marking of such structures for removal. He also emphasized the need to caution motor operators against picking up and dropping off passengers along roadways instead of using designated government parks.
While speaking, the Chairman of Isiukwuato Motor Park, Mr. Michael Chinedu, pledged his full support for the initiative. He assured the DG that by Monday, all motor operators would cease in-road loading and adhere strictly to operating from the approved motor park.
In a related development, Mr. Chinedu appealed to owners of lockup shops at Ahaba Imenyi Ultra Motor Park to come for “re-profiling” to confirm property ownership and improve the park’s management for better service delivery.
Commending the swift cooperation of the park leadership, Engr. Obinna urged traders operating under high-tension cables to relocate to the Central Park for their safety. He explained that this measure would help prevent traffic congestion and reduce accidents in the area.
The Executive Secretary of the Isiukwuato Town Planning Authority, TPL Chibuzo Enyinnanya, revealed that the marking of roads and identification of defaulting structures would begin tomorrow. She further stated that her team was already on the ground to implement necessary actions to address the challenges.
Other top officials from the Isiukwuato Town Planning Authority who participated in the exercise included the HOD of Development Planning, Mrs. Joy Amogu, and the HOD of Physical Planning, Mrs. Ngozi Moses Uja. Both officials expressed their agreement with the proactive measures to eliminate road encroachment and enhance safety.
This initiative is expected to restore order, curtail accidents, and improve the aesthetic quality of the region, thereby aligning with GODA’s commitment to sustainable urban development.
