The Enugu State government refutes allegations of demolitions and forced evictions of Nchatancha Nike residents, a community affected by the ongoing construction of New Enugu City. It attributes protests and disturbances, including the recent attack on a bulldozer at the construction site, to land speculators within the community. These speculators sell portions of already acquired and gazetted lands to unsuspecting buyers. The government emphasizes that previous administrations initiated the land acquisition process, but the current administration, led by Governor Peter Mbah, aims to approach the project with empathy, ensuring proper compensation and relocation before any demolitions occur.
Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to Enugu State Government, clarified these points during a site visit with journalists at Nchatancha Nike. He vowed that the government would remain resolute in achieving the first phase of the New City within 24 months, as agreed with the China Communication Construction Company (CCCC) in October.
Onyia explained that the governor, having already engaged in discussions with and gained the support of the communities, instructed contractors to work around the clock. He highlighted that some community members took advantage of the governor’s commitment to building the New Enugu City by selling lands to unsuspecting individuals. However, he emphasized that the land acquisition process started long before the current government and that affected individuals were given notice years ago.
Regarding the relocation of the affected Nchatancha community, Onyia stated that the current governor integrated plans for compensation and relocation into the project, despite it not being initially included. He assured that proper infrastructure, including schools and healthcare facilities, would be provided in the new location. Onyia also cautioned property buyers to conduct due diligence to avoid being defrauded by those selling lands acquired and gazetted by the government.
Governor Mbah, during the project’s launch in October, expressed his vision for New Enugu City to rival global metropolises like Dubai and Singapore. He outlined plans for essential infrastructure and services, including dedicated power projects, sewage systems, and high-speed internet, to be centralized and provided by the government.