Umuahia North Local Government Area Chairman Victor Ikeji and Abia State Police Commissioner Mr Kenechukwu Onwuemelie have inspected a former bicycle repair workshop behind Okigwe Park in Umuahia and the former Ohuhu Motor Park in the Abia capital, which have allegedly become shanty towns and dens for criminals and illegal drug dealers. While showing the Abia State Police Commissioner around the shanties, the Mayor emphasised his wish to destroy and rebuild them to allow a motor park and market. Ikeji remarked that the operations of transporters and dealers at Ishi-gate caused traffic gridlock and destroyed the charm of Umuahia’s city centre, necessitating their relocation to a better location to operate.
He insisted that the administration of Governor Alex Otti is committed to making Umuahia and all of Abia State a suitable and safe place for people to reside. During the examination, Abia State Police Commissioner Kenechukwu Onwuemelie stated that the shanty was a renowned nexus for criminals and drug peddlers in the state capital. He stated that it would be in the best interests of the state if the shanty was removed or converted into a useful usage.
