CHIKUN/KAJURU REP, HON. FIDELIX BAGUDU, ANNOUNCES NEW APPOINTMENTS TO STRENGTHEN INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE. (PHOTO).
The Abia State Government has confirmed that it has disbursed compensation to landowners affected by the Abia Airport project, particularly those whose properties are located along the runway in Nsulu, Isialangwa North Local Government Area. The announcement follows a protest earlier this week by some villagers who claimed they had not received their payments.
During a fact-finding visit to the project site on Friday, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba, accompanied by the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, and other top officials, clarified that the majority of landowners have been compensated. Ajagba noted that approximately 3,500 individuals have received payments, with outstanding cases attributed to issues such as incomplete indemnity certificates or problems with bank accounts.
“We discovered that it is not that they have not been paid, but some of them have challenges with either their accounts or maybe they have not completed the mandatory indemnity certificate that will enable them to get paid,” Ajagba stated.
He also addressed concerns about lands that were mistakenly cleared by a contractor without prior enumeration, stating that the issue has been resolved to the satisfaction of the host community. Ajagba assured those still awaiting payment that their cases would be addressed once the necessary documentation is completed, emphasizing that the Nsulu community supports the airport project.
Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, reiterated that landowners have been paid, adding that any remaining cases would be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Community leader Mr. Echezola Ukaumunna expressed gratitude for the government’s visit, noting that it clarified misconceptions and misinterpretations. He, however, criticized the community’s traditional ruler for failing to communicate effectively with the people.
The Abia State Government remains committed to resolving all outstanding compensation issues to ensure the smooth progress of the airport project.
One more photo below.
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