Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, on Saturday, disclosed that the state government would pay N771 million compensation to owners of 130 structures marked for demolition to pave way for expansion of 3 .5 kilometer road that leads to Okpara Square, in Umuahia , the state capital.

The governor, who spoke during what was tagged, ‘maiden monthly media interaction,’ said compensation amount had not earlier been disclosed despite inquiries. He, however, announced the N771 million figures, but did not disclose the minimum and maximum amount approved for each marked structure.

Unconfirmed reports reveal that compensations would range from N2 million to N50 million per structure. The governor, while flagging off the commencement of work, which began with the demolition from Wednesday last week, directed that the demolition should not commence without full compensation to owners of the affected structures, comprising buildings, hotels, petrol stations, markets, among others.

Some traditional rulers of the affected communities, Eze Emenike Chiabuto of Eziama Mbaja and Iheanyichukwu of Ossah, confirmed during an interview that some of their subjects had started receiving compensation payment, but did not disclose or state the amounts.

The governor, during the media interaction, reacting to questions on his about four months’ activities in office, insisted that due processes were being applied in the award of contracts, including competitive bidding.

On the fate of all the permanent secretaries, which he inherited and suspended, he said that while those that are due would retire, those not due may be recalled if they did not merit the suspension.

Meanwhile, Otti has formally performed the ground-breaking ceremony of Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) located on over 1,000 hectares of land in Owaza, in Ukwa West Council.

Otti, in his address at the weekend, titled, ‘Maximising Opportunities Through Partnerships,’ said: “AIIP is conceived to serve as a launch pad for our economic rejuvenation, leveraging the many advantages of this location.

“This also includes but not limited to the oil and gas deposits, nearness to Aba and Port Harcourt cities, as well as abundance of skilled labour and a secure environment for smooth, uninterrupted production and other industrial activities. (The Guardian)

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