The administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in Anambra State has begun the construction of the Ekwulobia flyover.
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.
Governor Soludo demolished over 500 buildings two months ago to make way for the construction of a dual carriageway and flyover bridge.
A visit to the town by Media Talk Africa on Wednesday showed that work had commenced in earnest for the construction of the flyover, to the delight of the indigenes of the community, who had earlier protested the demolition of their buildings.
The handlers of the project, A.G. Vision Construction Company, were seen drilling at the site.
The site engineer for the project, Nawar Deeb, who spoke with journalists, said: “We started this project just two weeks ago, and we are sure that we will 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.”
The President General of Ekwulobia Community, Nze Azubuike Nzechukwu, told journalists that after the initial anger over the demolition of their buildings, members of the community have now accepted the project.
He said: “As you can see, our people are very happy with 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 projects 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 by the demolition, and they have received compensation, except for about 10 per cent of them, who are yet to receive compensation. We are happy with the project.”
