The Abia government has assured the Azumuni community in Ukwa East Local Government Area that they will not be merged with Akwa Ibom State, aiming to ease residents' concerns about annexation and reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the community's interests during ongoing infrastructure projects.
The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, made this remark in his Umuahia office while speaking to delegates from the community about their approach to a road construction project initiated by the Akwa Ibom State government on a federal road connecting their area with the Abia state community.
Emetu voiced his disappointment that, despite a prior meeting with Azumini delegates regarding the road project, the community still harbors fears of being annexed into Akwa Ibom, which is hindering the progress of the road construction by the Akwa Ibom State government.
He urged the residents of Azumini in Ukwa East Local Government Area to refrain from activities that could obstruct the ongoing road construction in their area.
The deputy governor stated, “The Abia State government has engaged in discussions with the Akwa Ibom government regarding the road construction, and the project construction company has no intention of annexing any part of Abia State.
He mentioned that the power to annex an area lies with the boundary council.
“The authority to annex an area rests with the boundary council", he said.
Emetu reassured the community that no part of Abia state would be annexed to another state and reminded them of an agreement ensuring that the Akwa Ibom State government would compensate individuals whose land or crops were affected during the road construction project, emphasizing the government's commitment to their welfare.
Speaking on behalf of the Azumuni community, Fidelis Nnah expressed their support for the road project but emphasized the need for a written agreement between the two Abia and Akwa Ibom to prevent future boundary disputes. He expressed gratitude to the Deputy Governor for the detailed explanations and reassurances given to the community, acknowledging the importance of clear communication and support in addressing their concerns.
He stated that the Deputy Governor's efforts were instrumental in fostering understanding and trust within the community during this time.
