By Jude Michael
The Anambra State Government has finally begun the construction of Ekwulobia Flyover. But this comes at a cost of the demolition of over 500 buildings to give way for the construction of a dual carriage way, and flyover bridge.
Ekwulobia, a semi urban city in Aguata Local Government Area, has over the years witnessed burgeoning commercial activities, leading to regular vehicular traffic in the town.
A visit to the town by Trinitas on Wednesday showed that work had commenced in earnest for the construction of the flyover, to the delight of indigenes of the community who had earlier protested the demolition of their buildings.
The handlers of the project, A.G. Vision Construction Company, at the time of arrival at the site, was already drilling various spots that would habour the pillars for the bridge.
Engr Nawar Deeb, site engineer for the project, who spoke to journalists said they started the project about two weeks ago and assured that they would deliver on the job.
‘The project is for 18 months, and we are hopeful of delivery. We have no constraints so far. The members of the community have been very receptive and they have cooperated very well with us. We have members of the community here who are part of this construction,’ he said.
The President General of Ekwulobia, Nze Azubuike Nzechukwu, told journalists that unlike the initial anger over the demolition of their buildings, members of the community had now accepted the project.
His words, ‘As you can see, our people are very happy over the work going on here. The project is for us, and it is for development.
‘Before now, the people were not happy because of the demolition of buildings, but Mr Governor came here twice and spoke to the people about his intentions.
‘Now, the people have accepted the project and are very happy. Many of the people whose houses were affected have been paid some sort of token for their loss. Over 500 buildings were affected in the demolition, and they have received compensation, except for about 10 percent of them who are yet to receive. We are happy with the project.’
