Communities in Ukwa West LGA of Abia, whose lands have been taken for the construction of the Abia State Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP), are urging for job opportunities, fair compensation, and environmental protection. These requests were voiced by traditional rulers and representatives from Umuololo, Umuakata, Okohia, Uzaku, Umuorlu, and Obibor during a visit from Abia State officials, including the Commissioners for Lands and Housing, Environment, and Petroleum and Mineral Resources, on Friday in Owaza. The landowners, such as Uche Nwaele, also called for better power supply and community engagement in the project, expressing their support for the AIIP initiative. Commissioner Chaka Chukwumerije informed community members that compensation payments would start on December 31, 2024, and encouraged them to complete indemnity certificates and other paperwork for a smoother payment process. He assured the communities of protection from environmental pollution, mentioning federal government support for the project. Chukwumerije emphasized that the land is being acquired for public benefit, not political motives, to aid in the industrialization of the region and the state as a whole.
