The Abia State Government has begun the demolition of buildings erected without approval at the former Umuahia market, popularly known as Ogwumabiri, as part of its plan to transform the city into a modern capital. Acting through the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), the state moved in to clear the area, citing a breach of the original development plan.
Speaking on the development, UCDA General Manager, Kingsley Agomoh, explained that the land was initially allocated by the previous administration to a private investor for the construction of an event centre under a build, operate, and transfer arrangement. He revealed that instead of following the approved plan, the investor began developing residential duplexes and apartments. “The former market site was never intended for residential housing. Our vision is to create a modern city and a befitting state capital, and this requires strict adherence to approved land use,” Agomoh said.
He noted that the government had engaged the investor in discussions for over a year, offering an ex-gratia settlement that would allow the space to be repurposed for a modern transportation hub. The proposed hub, he said, would combine a bus terminal, a train station, and intercity shuttle facilities, serving as a major driver of connectivity and economic growth.
“The structures we demolished were not only unauthorized but also inconsistent with the overriding public interest. The new transportation hub will strengthen the city’s infrastructure, improve mobility, and contribute to Umuahia’s transformation into a world-class capital,” Agomoh stated.
He emphasized that the government remains committed to balancing development with fairness, but would not compromise on projects designed to serve the collective interest of residents and promote sustainable urban growth.
