In a decisive move to enhance urban planning and improve commercial activities in Obollo-Afor, the Udenu Local Government Authority has inaugurated a Committee on the Relocation of Building Material Traders to a new site along Enugu-Makurdi Road. The formal inauguration took place on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at the Udenu Local Government Secretariat.
The ceremony was presided over by the Chairman of Udenu LGA, Hon. Aka Eze Aka, who was represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Rt. Hon. Chika Aroh. In his address, Hon. Aroh underscored the significance of the relocation exercise, emphasizing that it aligns with the government’s vision of fostering structured commercial development, decongesting the town, and enhancing economic opportunities for traders and residents alike.
Dr. Chidiebere Nnamani ESQ, (Consultant on Revenue to the Local Government)
Chairman of the Committee
The relocation of the Obollo-Afor Building Material Traders from the Old Road site to the New Road along Enugu-Makurdi Road has been a subject of extensive deliberations. The decision, according to government officials, is backed by a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis that considers infrastructure needs, business growth potential, and the overall urban development of Obollo-Afor.
Hon. Aroh assured stakeholders that the transition would be executed with utmost fairness and due diligence, noting that the relocation is designed to:
Provide Adequate Trading Space – The new site offers a more spacious and well-structured environment, eliminating the congestion and safety risks associated with the current location.
Enhance Accessibility and Trade Efficiency – Its strategic location along Enugu-Makurdi Road will facilitate smoother logistics, attract more customers, and boost economic activities.
Resolve Land and Infrastructure Challenges – The government is committed to addressing land disputes and ensuring that proper facilities, including road networks, electricity, water supply, and security, are put in place.
Improve Safety and Environmental Standards – The move is expected to mitigate the risks associated with indiscriminate trading along the old road, including traffic congestion and environmental degradation.
Onyekachi C. Ugwu (SPA Special Duties), Secretary of the Committee
The newly inaugurated Committee is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring a seamless transition for traders within a stipulated period of six months. Its primary terms of reference include:
1. Investigating the causes of relocation challenges and identifying key stakeholders involved.
2. Examining political, social, and economic undercurrents affecting the relocation process.
3. Resolving land allocation disputes between the Obollo people and the Iheakpu-Obollo autonomous communities.
4. Assessing infrastructure adequacy at the new site and proposing necessary improvements.
5. Developing a comprehensive relocation plan, including space allocation and architectural designs.
To achieve these objectives, the Committee is expected to conduct stakeholder consultations, engage in on-site assessments, and analyze historical records and agreements related to the relocation.
The six-member committee is composed of seasoned professionals and Stakeholders with a strong understanding of the market dynamics in Obollo-Afor. The members include:
Dr. Chidi Nnamani ESQ, (Consultant to the Local Government on Revenue) – Chairman
Onyekachi C. Ugwu (SPA Special Duties) – Secretary
Eze Alexandra – Member
Okpe Meletus – Member
Nnadi Godwin – Member
Odo Theopholus – Member
They are expected to submit periodic reports to the Office of the Secretary, Udenu Local Government Council, and present a comprehensive final report with actionable recommendations within three weeks.
Hon. Aroh reassured the Traders that the government is fully committed to ensuring that their interests are protected throughout the process. He urged cooperation from all Stakeholders, stressing that the relocation would pave the way for a more organized and commercially vibrant Obollo-Afor.
“The government has carefully weighed all options and concluded that this relocation is the best course of action for both traders and the larger Community. We acknowledge the concerns of Stakeholders, but we are confident that with collective cooperation, this transition will be beneficial to all,” Aroh stated.
The inauguration of this Committee marks a critical step toward the actualization of the relocation project. As deliberations and implementation plans unfold, traders, Community leaders, and relevant Stakeholders are expected to work collaboratively with the government to ensure a hitch-free transition.
The Committee has since begun their works.
©Aka Eze Aka Media Team.
