Abia State Government (ABSG) has engaged the people of Nsulu clan in Isialangwa North LGA and secured their support for government to go ahead with the proposed siting of Abia Airport in their community.
This followed a protest from a section of the host communities in Nsulu against the proposed siting of the Abia airport in the area.
Speaking to the press after a crucial meeting with the representatives of the various host communities of the proposed airport project site, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Calab Ajagba said that the people that protested were misinformed about the intentions of the government about the airport project site.
He said the government had already engaged the traditional rulers in the clan before now but decided to further engage the people to ensure they understand its intentions.
“There are people that may not understand the intentions of government, that is why the engagement was initiated”.
“I’m sure at the end of the visit and engagement, the people will have a clear view of the intentions of government” Pastor Ajagba stated.
Pastor Ajagba assured that Abia State Government would continue the engagement and would visit every community involved and expressed the hope that the visits would yield positive result.
“The people you see here today have come from various communities and what we have been discussing is how we will continue to intensify the community engagement so that everybody is carried along in making sure that whatever concerns are addressed and resolved amicably.”
He said that part of the engagement is to explain to the people of Nsulu that nobody is trying to destroy their source of livelihood. He said that it was just to make sure that government developmental projects are implemented to the overall benefit of everybody.
The Chief of Staff said that trees are being cut down now after which enumeration would be done. He added that government would equally pay compensation to the members of the host communities.
Pastor Ajagba noted that Governor Alex Otti has shown unequal magnanimity in making sure that every part of the state is given a sense of belonging. He appreciated the fact that “the people of Nsulu are excited about the project which has numerous economic benefits.” He added that no right thinking Nsulu man or woman is opposing the siting of Abia airport in Nsulu land.
Also speaking to the press on behalf of others, some representatives of the communities, among them Dr. Jessy Odu and Mr. Kingsley Ukaegbu, declared their support for the proposed siting of the Abia airport in Nsulu land. They said that out of the eight host communities, it was only one that protested against the project, adding that the protest was as a result of misinformation.
They reeled out the benefits associated with siting the airport in the clan to include boosting their economic activities, and creation of employment, among others.
Dr. Odu, in particular, said that, “The airport when realized is going to open up our land for real economic activities. It is going to open up employment for the youths and many others.”
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