A former minister of information and the former APGA gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 elections in Enugu State Mr Frank Nweke Jnr has called on the Enugu state government to implement law and order with empathy.
The former minister noted that he has consistently supported the government’s authority in overseeing town planning regulations.
Moreover, Nweke believes it is the responsibility of potential investors and property owners to conduct thorough inquiries, ensuring adherence to relevant laws and government guidelines while confirming the legal status of properties.
The ongoing controversy surrounding the demolition of properties at Enugu Lifestyle and Gold City (Centenary City) by the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority, as emphasized by Nweke, raises concerns about citizen engagement and land management across the state.
Nweke underscores the importance of effective stakeholder management and continuous public communication in policy implementation. He asserts that the government should have engaged in proactive communication to address public concerns before initiating any demolitions. Without such measures, government actions risk being perceived as clandestine and harmful to the people, eroding trust in the government’s efforts to attract investors.
Similarly, he highlights the urgent need for transparency in Land Management in the state, addressing past controversies around land-grabbing during the Ifeanyi Ugwanyi administration. Nweke recommends designating leadership for the Ministry of Lands, digitizing state land assets, and ensuring clear communication of the land purchase process to provide assurance to developers and investors, irrespective of the ruling government.
Nweke stresses the imperative for the government to engage aggrieved property owners, offering them a chance to be heard and providing lawful avenues to regularize property documentation or secure alternative investments, crucial for restoring confidence in developers and potential investors.
Commending the government and law enforcement for swift action in response to the reported apprehension of kidnappers in one of the buildings, Nweke emphasizes the need to rid Enugu state of criminals.
He also expresses commendation for the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority’s commitment to enforcing town planning laws and guidelines. Nweke suggests the necessity for alignment between the state and local government in enforcing these laws, mitigating prospective investors’ vicarious liability for government inefficiencies or corruption.
In conclusion, Nweke asserts that governments exist to cater to the welfare of the people. Therefore, the Enugu State Government (ENSG) must wield authority with empathy, greater sensitivity, and accountability in policy-making and implementation.