An elder statesman, Mr. Michael Ukeje has applauded the Rivers State Governor, Barr. Nyesom Wike over the demolition of shanties in the state.
Ukeje who stated this recently in Port-Harcourt, pointed out the areas marked out for demolition to include; Trans-Amadi/Oginigba Slaughter Market among others which were notorious for criminal activities, and hideouts for bandits, adding that it was a welcome development.
Speaking with our reporter, Ukeje noted that it is not every Government Policy that should be criticized, describing Gov. Wike’s action is apt.
In his words: “I support the governor’s demolition of the Trans-Amadi/Oginigba Slaughter Market and such other shanties because such places have always been the hideouts for criminals.
“The bandits take off and come back to such shanties. Their activities are swift, dangerous and deadly. So the Governor’s action in demolishing the criminal hideouts is quite justifiable.”
He explained that the action was not targeted on any particular group or religion.
“Some actions or policies are taken for the interest of the people and we describe such projects as people’s oriented because they are meant for people’s benefits.
“We should equally remember that when it comes to protection of lives and properties, the Government might take prompt and proactive steps or policies which might not go down well with some people. That does not mean that he policy or action is not viable”.
Recalled that in August 2021, the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike ordered the demolition of shanties in Port Harcourt which has attracted criticism especially the Northerners who are the major stakeholders in the Slaughter Market.
Addressing Journalists shortly in Port Harcourt, the Gov. Wike categorically said that the demolition of some market shanties and sanctuaries is borne out the compelling need to reduce crimes, protect lives and properties of the Rivers People, stating that there is need to rid the state of all shanties where criminals were using as hideouts after committing crimes.
“We wish to reiterate that the ongoing demolition of shanties was borne out of the compelling need to safeguard lives and property across the state.
“We are gradually achieving our objectives which is to deny the criminals these sanctuaries and hideouts from which they embark on their criminal activities and safely return to”.
He stated that his administration will never be intimidated by blackmail fuelled by ethnic and religious sentiments.
“It should be pointed out here that the demolition of the Trans-Amadi/Oginigba Slaughter Market attracted criticism and condemnation from the Northerners, who said they were targeted at because they were the major stakeholders”, he further stated.
“No matter how it is viewed, the importance of the demolition of the shanties is timely and a welcome development as it will reduce criminal activities both in the short and long runs”, he highlighted.
