The Ebonyi State Government’s Planned Road Expansion Triggers Widespread Appeal from Property Owners and Residents
The Ebonyi State Government’s decision to expand several major roads within the Abakaliki metropolis has sparked strong appeals from affected property owners and residents.
The planned widening of roads such as Afikpo Road, Old Ogoja Road, Ojeowere Street, and Vanco-Waterworks Road from 5.5 metres to 10.8 metres has raised serious concerns over the potential demolition of numerous buildings, including residential, commercial, and public structures.
During a town hall meeting convened by Governor Francis Nwifuru with members of the Ebonyi State Landlords Association and residents from the affected areas, property owners passionately appealed for a reduction in the proposed road width.
They warned that if the plan is carried out without adjustments, it would result in the loss of a significant number of buildings — including recently completed 4-star hotels, banks, shopping malls, police stations, and residential homes.
One of the major stakeholders, Elder Silas Orawo, CEO of Grooves Hotels, Abakaliki, expressed deep concern over the looming demolition. He noted that if the road is expanded to the proposed 10.8 metres, half of his hotel would be pulled down. Orawo pleaded with the governor to reduce the expansion to between 4.5 and 5 metres in order to limit the damage to just the generator house, thus saving the main hotel structure.
“Your Excellency,” he said, “we support development, but we are also pleading for fairness. A slight adjustment in the road width will prevent the destruction of major investments and ensure economic stability for many.”
In addition to property owners, tenants also voiced their worries. Juliet Anyigor, who spoke on behalf of tenants, highlighted the lack of consideration for renters during past demolitions. She pointed out that many tenants have already paid their annual rents and face the risk of eviction without compensation or alternative housing.
“I represent the vulnerable tenants who are always forgotten during demolitions. No one thinks of us. Rents have gone up to ₦1.5 million in some parts of Abakaliki. If demolition happens without notice or support, many tenants will be stranded and homeless,” she said. “We are pleading with the government to give tenants enough time to relocate before any demolition exercise begins.”
The Chairman of the Ebonyi State Landlords Association, Chief Augustine Okoye, echoed similar sentiments. He appealed to the state government to provide adequate compensation for affected property owners. While acknowledging that infrastructural development is necessary, he stressed the need to balance progress with compassion.
“The association supports the government’s development agenda,” Chief Okoye stated, “but it must not come at the complete expense of citizens’ homes and businesses. Let development be humane and inclusive.”
Governor Francis Nwifuru, addressing the gathering, explained that the town hall meeting was organized to provide clarity on the state’s commitment to enforcing its capital city master plan. He emphasized that while the decision to reclaim road setbacks was difficult, it was necessary to ensure proper urban planning and infrastructure across the city.
However, Governor Nwifuru also made it clear that properties along Old Ogoja Road that do not comply with the legal setbacks will not be eligible for compensation. He cited existing laws which define the acceptable distance between buildings and public roads. The governor revealed that an estimated 25% of the structures in the identified corridors would be affected.
He further announced that demolition would commence only after estate valuers have completed the assessment of all affected properties.