Essential Ndubuisi
On July 28, 2023, the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) carried out a significant development control exercise, focusing on areas such as Meloch Hotel Avenue and Immigration Junction.
During the exercise, Hon. Osita Onuko, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, emphasized that their actions aligned with the state’s ongoing efforts to eliminate shanties, illegal structures along waterways and flood channels, and unauthorized constructions in Awka.
“In the past year, we issued multiple notices to occupants of these shanties and enlisted the services of DJ AIZA NWOSU, a well-known town crier, for continuous reminders throughout the Awka Capital city,” said Mr. Onuko.
He further stressed the importance of adhering to approved building locations for the success of the state government’s urban renewal agenda. Governor Soludo’s administration is actively working on expanding city roads and dualizing some to enhance Awka’s stature as a state capital.
Mr. Onuko also warned that the Agency would not tolerate any shanty or illegal structure anywhere within the state capital territory.
However, some residents expressed concern about not receiving prior notification before the exercise. For instance, Mrs. Ijeoma Okeke, a petty trader in the affected area, reported that the ‘container body’ in her vicinity was marked “remove by ACTDA 6/7/2022,” indicating a lack of prior communication.
The ACTDA remains committed to executing its urban renewal drive in Awka and aims to ensure sustainable development while addressing community concerns in the process.
