Asaba Wears New Look

Asaba the capital of Delta State suffered the problem of indiscriminate waste disposal by residents especially along major streets like Okpanan and Nnebisi roads in the heart of the city, where traders literally dump their refuse in the middle of the road.

But that is not the case today as the city is wearing a new look devoid of dirt and illegal structures.

It all began when the State Capital Territory Development Agency led by the Director General Mrs. Onyeeachi Mrakpor in September 2019, began a sensitization drive to clean the city with a 3 weeks ultimatum for owners of illegal shops and structures to vacate the streets, while government offices and private homes were directed to paint their buildings.

After the ultimatum elapsed the agency began a massive demolition exercise which led to the destruction of many illegal shops and businesses, while the agency built the new Delta Delicacies and Fruit arenas in strategic locations where those affected were relocated.

One of the beneficiaries of the facility at Okpanam road Mrs. Blessing Chidiebere, described the early period of the exercise as tough, but said things are getting better.

At the fruits arena along NTA road, Ms Ngozi Odinaka, said she had operated illegally at the same spot before the cleanup process, observing the new arrangement was suitable for business.

A painter who Mr. Patrick Usabor who spared precious time to speak with us whilst on duty said he has not had an idle day since the operation-paint-your-surroundings began, noting he earn up to four thousand naira on daily basis.

Radio Nigeria also caught up with Mrs. Onyemeachi Mrakpor at her office where she revealed the secret to the successful cleanup of the state capital and why residents of Asaba are complying with her methods. Some residents of Asaba also expressed their views on the development they say the development has created a healthier environment and eased traffic in the capital city.

They also pointed the economic hardship meted on others affected by the demolitions and relocation of trading centers, while urging the capital territory agency to make efforts to ameliorate their plights.

Oghenero Eghweree