Abia Govt denies invading radio/TV station, harassing workers
Abia State government has refuted reports that it invaded the premises of Enyimba Radio FM Aba, in Aba, to intimidate workers on duty with security agents.
The government was responding to claims by the management of the broadcast station that officials of Greater Aba Development Authority, GADA, and Aba North LGA used security agents to obstruct construction works at the media organization’s new site.
The station’s management, which uploaded alleged videos of the incident on Thursday, equally claimed that some of the staff were arrested during the said invasion.
Reacting to the allegations, the Abia State government described the claims as false.
A statement by Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Media and Publicity on Friday, said that there is an ongoing three-storey building project, said to be a hotel, being developed at the same premises where Enyimba Radio is located.
According to him, Abia North Planning Authority, ABNPA, had severally served the developers all the legal notices requesting they comply with relevant development control laws.
According to him, even though the developers promised to tender documents to certify compliance with laid down protocols, they failed to do so but rather continued with the building project.
“On three occasions, the site was sealed as required by law by ABNPA and the developers, unlawfully, went ahead to remove government seals and continued their work, an offense punishable by law.
“Like every other media outfit, Abia State government has no problem with Enyimba FM Aba, and did absolutely nothing wrong against the management or staff of the radio station.”
