Makurdi demolition to pave way for dualisation of Makurdi–Enugu highway project, says Benue State govt.

By Chris Ochayi

The Benue State Government has explained that the ongoing demolition of illegal structures along the Wurukum–Yaikyor – Apir- Ikpayongo axis of Makurdi was to pave way for the dualization of the Makurdi–Enugu highway project.

The government in a statement issued by Tersoo Kula , the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia said the demolition exercise is lawful along the corridors of a critical infrastructure project of the federal government with cooperation from state governments designed to ease traffic.

The statement condemned the antics of some mischief makers attempting to misinform the public on the demolition exercise, while noting that the affected structures contravene town planning regulations and pose a danger to the integrity of the road expansion work.

The statement reads, “The attention of the Food Basket Government House has been drawn to mischievous attempts by some desperate individuals to misrepresent the ongoing demolition exercise along the Wurukum–Yaikyor – Apir- Ikpayongo axis of Makurdi.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the demolitions currently taking place on designated road setbacks and rights of way are part of the legitimate and well-supervised dualization of the Makurdi–Enugu highway, a critical infrastructure project of the federal government with cooperation from state governments designed to ease traffic, improve safety, and promote socio-economic growth.

“It is on record that the government, through the relevant agencies, conducted thorough assessments on all approved structures affected by the dualization project.

“Owners of legitimate buildings with proper approvals have been duly compensated in accordance with laid-down procedures.

“However, those whose properties lacked approval or were illegally erected on government right of way were duly notified and directed to vacate, as such structures contravene town planning regulations and pose a danger to the integrity of the road expansion work.

“It is therefore mischievous and deceitful for anyone whose property has been marked for lawful demolition to attempt to politicize the process by repainting, mounting billboards or posting the image or name of any leader on such structures, in an attempt to stir sentiment or blackmail the government.

“Let it also be clearly stated that the exercise is not limited to Makurdi. The dualization extends from Makurdi to the Benue–Enugu boundary, while the Enugu State Government will continue from its boundary to the termination point of the project. This road project is being executed in phases.

“We therefore urge the public to disregard the false narratives being circulated by merchants of deceit and divisive politics.

“The ongoing demolitions are not acts of victimization but necessary steps toward modernization and the infrastructural renewal of our dear state.

“Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of distortion and political mischief. We appeal to well-meaning citizens to see the bigger picture; that this project, once completed, will bring immense benefit to the people of Benue and Nigeria at large.

“Governor Hyacinth Alia led administration remains committed to the rule of law, fairness, and the collective progress of all. Harbingers of falsehood should give way to truth and development.”