Umuahia – The Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has commenced the demolition of unauthorized residential buildings erected on the site of the former Umuahia Market, popularly known as Ogwumabiri, as part of the Abia State Government’s plan to transform the city into a modern, befitting capital.
Click Here to Join Our Whatsapp Channel
The land, previously allocated by the past administration to a private investor for the construction of an event centre under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangement, was instead converted by the investor into residential duplexes and apartments without government approval.
According to UCDA, the state government had engaged the investor in negotiations for over a year, offering an ex-gratia settlement before reclaiming the property. The reclaimed site will now be developed into a modern transportation hub integrating a bus terminal, train station, and intercity shuttle connection point.
General Manager of UCDA, Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, explained that the demolished structures were inconsistent with the approved use and did not align with the overriding public interest.
“This integrated transportation hub will significantly boost Umuahia’s infrastructure, improve mobility, and contribute to the city’s economic growth,” Agomoh stated.
The Abia State Government reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning Umuahia as a world-class capital city. The project is expected to improve traffic management, enhance public safety, and create new economic opportunities for residents.
