By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The Benue State Government has begun tearing down illegal structures and shanties that have been built along road setbacks and major highways in some areas of Makurdi, the state capital.
The General Manager, Benue State Urban Development Board, Mr. Terhemen Mende, who led the demolition exercise stated that the board was working towards having Makurdi urban renewal upgrade.
He said the demolition became necessary as part of the government's plan to reclaim the road alignment for the Benue-Enugu Highway construction project of the Federal Government, and the urban regeneration of the state capital.
Mr. Mende added that the board was focused on revitalizing the urban landscape of Makurdi through renovation and modernization.
"The demolition is part of the government's efforts to make way for the construction of the Benue-Enugu Highway by the Federal Government, as well as to improve the overall aesthetics and safety of the state capital".
The General Manager has also stated that efforts are underway to increase awareness about the demolition of unauthorized structures in other areas of the state that pose a significant security threat and detract from the state's aesthetic appeal.
He discountenanced the impression that government did not create enough awareness about the exercise adding that the demolished structures had posed serious security risk and were defacing the beauty of the state capital
While some individuals affected by the demolition expressed mixed feelings about the process, they have called on the government to provide financial assistance for them to pursue alternative opportunities.
Chief Solomon Ugondo, the Kindred Head of Wurukum, showed his support for the government's urban renewal initiative and encouraged the state to consider finding a new location for those impacted by the demolition to continue their businesses.
Parts of Makurdi town affected in the demolition exercise were North Bank, Wurukum, Welfare Quarters, Achussa and Iorkyaa Ako Street, High Level, Makurdi.
