Some people whose facilities were demolished in the ongoing dualisation of the Enugu-Ugwuogo-Opi road by the Enugu State government, weekend, told THE WHISTLER that they are happy because they can see the reality of the work.
According to them, the road, when dualised, would eliminate gridlocks and enhance smooth vehicular movement.
Hilochi Gardens is among the facilities whose fences were demolished. Its Director, Hon Hillary Onah, said he lost a lot but he had no regrets because the demolition was for the public good.
He stated that, “Before the state began to demolish the affected facilities, owners of marked structures were told to remove them. Some of us took the grace period to demolish the affected areas.
Demolition of this kind is understandable because the state government is implementing a legacy project.
The demolition is going on, and we can see corresponding construction of the road.
So there are no grudges. The state government has shown its sincerity and determination to make Enugu State a model.”
Chukwuemeka Oko’s shop was destroyed. He said, “It is painful, but the fact is that the building encroached on the road. We were given enough time to evacuate.
“I personally demolished my shop to save some valuables, like rods and roofs. I thank the state government for doing the right thing.”
Moses Okoye, however, said he was yet to recover from his losses. According to him, “I renewed my shop rent in December last year. So I lost heavily.
“I am yet to find another shop because of the cost. I had wanted the government to give us some monetary compensation so that we could start our businesses afresh.”
Lady Okaka said the demolition affected her restaurant. “I’m not happy but what can I do?” she asked.
She continued, “If Senator Gill Nnaji’s country home was affected by the demolition, who am I to raise my fingers?
“The whole row of Sen Nnaji’s fence was brought down. The governor is courageous, and I think he is getting everything right, though there are pains.”
Gov Mbah had last year flagged off the road, stating that its funds were already available.
He also said the dualisation would eliminate the recurring kidnap and armed robbery cases along the road.
