The N195 billion Port Harcourt ring road project, initiated by the past administration of Nyesom Wike, aims to provide an effective bypass to reduce inner-city traffic gridlock.
However, the project has faced criticism as it negatively impacts hundreds of residents whose properties and business premises were destroyed to make way for its construction.
The project involves the construction of a 50-kilometer dual carriageway connecting six local government areas in the state, including Port Harcourt, Obio Akpor, Ikwerre, Etche, Eleme, and Ogu-Bolo.
It includes plans for six flyovers and river-crossing bridges to enhance transportation efficiency.
Many affected residents, whose properties were undervalued and inadequately compensated, are voicing their grievances. Emeka Chijoh, a resident of Agbon Nchia Eleme, expressed concern over the demolition of his lockup shops, which were a significant source of income for his family. He stated, “I am not against government’s development plans, but I feel that this particular project is not going to have any economic benefit to us.”
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Similar sentiments were echoed by Obari Peter and other residents, who highlighted the financial strain of rebuilding their houses in the current economic climate. The situation is dire for business owners like Paul Eke, who were displaced without compensation and are struggling to recover their losses.
Residents of Aka Base in Rumuelumeni, Iwofe, Rumosi, and other areas are also facing challenges due to the project. They lamented the lack of compensation for displaced businesses and undervaluation of their properties.
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Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, Executive Director of the Youth and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria), criticized the project, stating that it would not have any significant economic value. He called for the development of new cities instead of concentrating projects in Port Harcourt.
Efforts to reach the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Joseph Johnson, for comments on the compensation issue were unsuccessful. However, Governor Similanayi Fubara assured that all affected property owners would be duly compensated.