The Minister of Works, Umahi, has voiced his displeasure over the activities of street traders, expressing regret that their actions are compounding the efforts to fix the country. During his inspection of a project in Aba, Umahi directed security operatives in his motorcade to apprehend the erring traders, stating that they would be prosecuted for economic sabotage.
Umahi, visibly enraged, emphasized that the traders displayed no respect for the ongoing project, highlighting the dilapidated condition of the road over the years. The former governor indicated his intention to advise the Abia State government to establish a task force to address the issue of street traders in Aba.
He stated, “It appears the people here like to inflict injuries on themselves. They can’t even allow the contractor to work. They drive against traffic. They use the completed road for parks, trading, and dumping of refuse.”
Umahi expressed concern about the widespread dumping of refuse on the road, calling for proactive measures to preserve the Federal Government’s investment in the infrastructure. He urged the governor to take decisive action against those engaging in unauthorized activities on the completed road.
“It is not encouraging at all. I will advise the governor to set up a task force here. We wouldn’t like after the Federal Government had spent so much here, we see people building and trading on the road. The citizens of this country will need to do their bit, while leadership also does its bit. That is the only way it will work,” Umahi added.
While expressing dissatisfaction with citizens compromising public infrastructure for personal gains, Umahi urged Nigerians to support the efforts of the President in addressing the challenges faced by the nation.
Despite the challenges, Umahi commended the Arab Contractors for their work on the project. He attributed delays to the high cost of construction materials. The Federal Controller of Works in Abia, Tony Onwubiko, provided details, stating that the project covered approximately 57km from Abia Tower in Umuahia to the Railway Crossing at Alaoji in Osisioma Local Government Area.
