Abia relocates Isigate market traders, initiates smart city projects

The Abia State government has moved to restore order at the Umuahia rail-crossing area, also known as Isigate market, by sacking illegal traders and motor park operators causing a disturbance.

The traders are being relocated to a new site at Umunze-Okwulaga Afara, still within Umuahia, the state capital. For years, the area has been plagued by the activities of unlawful traders who defied multiple government orders to vacate the location.

However, following a state executive council meeting yesterday, Information Commissioner Prince Okey Kanu stated that the relocation is part of the government’s broader urban renewal and beautification efforts aimed at transforming Umuahia into a smart city.

Kanu revealed that the relocation plan also includes the construction of bus stop shelters and efforts to reduce congestion in the city centre. He confirmed that the new market site has been secured, compensation paid to landowners, and perimeter fencing construction is underway.

In line with the government’s commitment to the Smart City project, the commissioner highlighted plans to standardise building projections across the state, including Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia. Landlords will now be allowed to project their buildings up to 1.5 metres, with the intention of uniformity in design throughout the state.

As part of the Smart City initiative, the government is also expanding Library Avenue (Bank Road) in Umuahia, with a 1.385-kilometre stretch being transformed into a two-lane road, complete with drainage systems. This project is expected to enhance the aesthetics of the area leading up to the Government House.

Also, Kanu provided an update on other government housing projects, announcing that four new housing developments will soon commence in and around the state capital.

Two projects will be located in Umuahia, one in Aba, and another in Ukwa West. Ongoing discussions with developers include locations such as Valley View in Umuahia, Mbaisii Mgbarakuma, and Obehie in Ukwa West Local Council.

Chaka Chukwumereije, Commissioner for Lands and Housing, revealed that the state is working on a major housing project called ‘New Umuahia’, situated between Umuahia Tower and Ntigha in Isiala Ngwa North Local Council, covering 2,000 hectares and impacting 19 communities.

In addition to these developments, Kanu mentioned that there are currently 28 ongoing road construction projects across the state, along with 44 direct labour sites. He also urged motorists in Aba and Umuahia to desist from driving against traffic, warning that violators will face prosecution under the relevant laws.