The paramount rulers of Itu, Ibiono Ibom, Ikono and Ikot Ekpene local government areas of the state have called on the federal government to pay compensation to property owners at the right of way whose assets were destroyed for the construction of the Itu-Calabar highway.
Recall that the Federal Government through the immediate past Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Ita Enang had told the affected communities that the Federal Government had no money to pay for compensation, and called on various state governments to pay the compensation to the affected persons.
Unsettled by the statement, the paramount rulers during an advocacy visit to the State Director of Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network, Otuekong Franklyn Isong in Uyo yesterday, said it was unlawful not to compensate property owners affected by government project.
The paramount ruler of Itu, His Royal Highness, Edidem Edet Akpan Inyang who spoke on behalf of others regretted that non-payment of compensation has stalled the work on the road which led to an increased number of road accidents.
Responding, Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network State Director, Franklyn Isong pledged his commitment towards assisting them in developing their communities and commended them for their peaceful disposition towards resolving the challenges confronting the Calabar-Itu road project.
