ANAMBRA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Mixed reactions have greeted planned dualization of the Amawbia/Agulu/Nanka/Ekwulobia/Uga/Akokwa road in Anambra State by Governor Chukwuma Soludo-led administration.
The dualization of the 34km federal road approved by the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) is expected to connect Awka, the state capital to Imo State on completion.
While some have described the project as laudable initiative, others have raised concerns about the fate of affected individuals and communities.
Investigations revealed that no fewer than 4,000 structures would likely be demolished in course of the road expansion plan. What becomes the fate of the rightful owners of the affected structures remains a million dollar question begging for answers, especially in view of ugly past experiences where compensation promises by successive governments were not fulfilled?
A public commentator and veteran journalist, Tony Okafor had urged the government to consider the plight of the affected residents and adopt a more inclusive approach to development
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He argued that as commendable as the initiative is, there was need for a human-centered approach to the plan.
He said, “The buildings marked for demolition are not just mere structures; they are people’s homes, some built long before the road was designated as a federal highway.
“Findings show that at least 4,000 structures are expected to be demolished in the road expansion mission.
“This is not the first time; a similar venture by the state government for a flyover at Ekwulobia resulted in the demolition of around 200 buildings, including those with extensions built along major roads for selfish interests.
“The owners of these buildings, many of whom have already invested their lives and resources, are now faced with the prospect of displacement and loss.
“We urge the government to consider their plight and adopt a more inclusive approach to development. We must also stress the importance of a human-centered approach to progress.
“In the demolition to give way for the Ekwulobia flyover construction, the owners of the demolished property were compensated by the government, according to NAIRALAND forum report.
“In the Amawbia/ Agulu/Agulu/Nanka/ Ekwulobia/Uga road dualization, it is only natural that the affected persons also have a right to fair compensation, as enshrined in relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“Displacing people from their homes, especially in an era of skyrocketing costs of building materials and essential commodities, is not only inhumane but also a stark reminder of the need for empathy in governance.
“We urge the government to prioritize the well-being of its citizens and ensure that development projects do not come at the expense of their dignity and livelihoods.
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“Fair compensation and relocation plans must be put in place to cushion the impact of this project on affected individuals and communities.
“By doing so, we can strike a balance between progress and compassion, demonstrating that development can indeed have a human face.
“The people will continue to support Governor Soludo’s development efforts while also advocating a more inclusive and empathetic approach to governance. The people of Anambra State deserve nothing less.”
A civil rights activist, Prince Chris Azor, on his part noted that the fate of owners of structures likely to be affected during the process raised concerns about human rights, adequate compensation, relocation and resettlement of those affected.
He however underscored the need for property valuation, conduct of transparent and accurate assessments of property values to determine appropriate compensation.
He said, “The planned dualization of the Amawbia/Agulu/Nanka/Ekwulobia/Uga/Akokwa road by the Soludo administration is no doubt a significant infrastructure development project that will enhance transportation infrastructure and socio- economic growth and development.
“However, the fate of owners of approximately 4000 buildings that may be affected raises concerns about human rights, adequate compensation, relocation and resettlement of those affected.
“Respecting the rights of affected individuals and communities, including the right to housing, livelihood, and fair compensation is imperative. Transparency and accountability standards should be put in place in the entire process.
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“Community engagement processes, environmental impact assessment, consultation with local communities and stakeholders to address concerns and ensure inclusive decision-making are key elements of consideration.
“We are all witnesses to the outcomes of the ongoing Ekwulobia flyover issues around compensation and due process.
“There’s also need to create alternative routes for road users and commuters. This would minimize displacement and property demolition.
“Addressing these concerns through open communication, inclusive decision-making, and equitable solutions will be crucial to minimizing the impact on affected property owners and ensuring the project benefits the wider community and citizens in a sustainable manner.”
The vice president of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Damian Okeke Ogene had remarked that the interconnectivity that would be provided by the road would boost socioeconomic activities in the South East region and enhance collaboration in other areas, including efficient and effective security network to secure the zone.
Meanwhile, some groups of individuals whose properties were affected under the leadership of Agulu People’s Union had been assured that all hopes were not lost in the planned demolition.
The Public Relations Officer of the body, Chinazo Onwuazombe in a statement, titled, “Special announcement about the dualization of Awka-Ekwulobia road”, said the Union was doing everything possible to reduce the extent of demolition to be suffered by the victims, while those whose properties were due for compensation were adequately compensated.
The statement reads, “All those from Agulu whose properties are marked for removal along the road are by this announcement asked to be at the site of their properties with four (4) passport photograph and means of identification on Tuesday 11th June, 2024.
“While we urge everybody to stay calm and cooperate with the State Government. The Leadership of Agulu People’s Union is doing everything possible to reduce the extent of demolition that our people will suffer and ensure that those whose properties are due for compensation are adequately compensated.”
Reacting, Special Adviser on Special Projects to Soludo,
Ebuka Nwankwo described the road as a legacy project, saying the dualization would not only transform the economic landscape of both Anambra and Imo States, but would also help in the social integration between both states.
He said, “The road, which is currently a single lane road, is in a deplorable condition. The construction of this federal road by Governor Soludo would not only transform the economic landscape of Anambra State and Imo State, it would also help in the social integration between these states.
“This project is a perfect example of how a focused subnational government could work with a progressive federal government in order to achieve massive progress in a win-win partnership.
“Considering the socio-economic importance of this Trunk A road, Anambra State government applied to the federal government in order to intervene in its dualization. Permission was granted after an extensive review of Anambra’s proposal.
“The proposed new road – which will be completed in 12 months from the date the contractors mobilize to site – is anticipated to reduce the travel time between Owerri and Awka by over 70%.
“The construction of this new road is part of Governor Soludo’s urban regeneration plan, which comprises the development of clean and green cities, dualization of major roads and the connection of major cities with railway systems in Anambra.
“This project, which will be a legacy project for the people of Anambra and Imo State, has elicited excitement from the people of the State. The scale clearly shows that it is not what a faint-hearted and unfocused government could execute. But Governor Soludo, with his can-do spirit, is determined to place Anambra on the map!”