FRONT PAGE EDITORIAL: Need For Compassionate Devt as Soludo Dualizes Amawbia/Agulu/Nanka/Ekwulobia/Uga road

By Tony Okafor

As Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration continues to transform Anambra State with infrastructure projects, we commend his efforts towards development.

However, we must also stress the importance of a human-centered approach to progress.

The dualization of the Amawbia/Agulu/Ekwulobia/Uga road, while a laudable initiative, has raised concerns about the fate of affected individuals and communities.

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.

According to our findings, 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.

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.

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.

Ubi jus ibi remedium -where there is a right, there is a remedy.