Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State
Abia suspends construction work in all markets
[From BONIFACE OKORO, Umuahia]
Abia Government has ordered immediate suspension of ongoing construction works, and even those yet to commence, in all markets across the state.
According to the newly-sworn-in Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, who issued the suspension order in a statement in Umuahia, Sunday, the measure was to enable the government to effectively review market development in the state and check illegal conversion of designated parks, as well as open areas in the markets.
The statement warned that those affected must strictly comply with the suspension order.
However, the Commissioner explained that Ahiaohuru and Ariatia International Market, both in Aba, which are currently under reconstruction and deadlines already set for their completion, were not affected by the suspension order.
He equally warned that security operatives have been put on alert to deal with anyone or group who goes against the suspension directive.
The statement read:
“In a bid to ensure effective review of market development in the state, contractors and allottees are hereby informed of the immediate suspension of ongoing and yet-to-commence construction works in all markets across the State.
“Chairmen and Chief Security Officers of the respective markets are by this announcement charged to ensure strict compliance with government directives in this regard.
“Developers handling the Ahia Ohuru and Ariaria reconstruction projects in Aba are exempted from this directive. Market committee chairmen are further enjoined to liaise with these developers bearing in mind the agreed delivery dates.
“Security agencies have been put on notice to ensure strict compliance as no government will sit idly and watch the reckless conversion of designated parks and other open areas in our markets to other uses.”
