Dorcas Samson Achi
The Leaders and Youths of Uzoubi Autonomous Community in Orlu LGA of Imo State, yesterday protested against the planned expansion of the Orlu International Market which will lead to the demolition of a building situate at Orlu International Market, housing three important government offices such as Market Master’s office, Market Police Post and Market Maternity.
Mr Ikechukwu Nwaku, President General of Uzoubi Umuna Autonomous Community revealed to our reporter during the protest that the group planning the demolition and expansion is led by Chief Chinonso Akwaeke,an investor from Orlu LGA with the intention of erecting about thirty shops at that particular place after the demolition.
The President General described the move as an aberration and slap on the faces of the community leaders and the traditional Ruler of Uzoubi Umuna Autonomous community, HRH Eze B. C Okereke who were not consulted.
According to Mr Nwaku, the community loves the market structure and wants the second phase of the market where there are empty lands to be developed instead of demolishing already erected buildings.
The Acting Youth President of Uzoubi Autonomous Community, Deacon Ellias Dikeigbo while addressing our reporter, maintained that youths of the community are peaceful and pleaded that the right things are done for peace to reig.
Mr Emeka Okoro, Acting Secretary General of Uzoubi Autonomous community, and other youths who gathered for the protest unanimously requested the government to bring more developments to the market in order to create employment opportunities for Orlu people.
Speaking with our reporter, the spokesperson of the Company,in charge of the project,Engr Kingsley Uzorma said that those that protested yesterday are unaware of the government’s good intention for the Orlu LGA and Imo people at large.He argued that,”the market belongs to Imo State,not necessarily the Umuna people.Government from the onset had plan to develop the market further which is what it has begun and we are committed to give the state the best in terms of quality of job”.
He further stated that sponsors of the protest are opposition who obviously don’t wish the government well and if not tamed,will stop at nothing in ensuring that the market is not developed beyond the level Chief Achike Udenwa left it.
Photo caption:Youths Protesting over proposed expansion,demolition of a building in International Market,yesterday.
