Abia State government has refuted claims that it invaded the premises of Enyimba Radio FM Aba, located in Aba, to intimidate workers on duty using security agents.
The government responded to allegations made by the management of the broadcast station, who accused officials of the Greater Aba Development Authority and Aba North LGA of employing 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, further claimed that some of its staff were arrested during the said invasion.
In response, the Abia State government dismissed these claims as false. A statement issued by Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Media and Publicity, on Friday, clarified that there is an ongoing three-storey building project—reportedly a hotel—being developed at the same premises where Enyimba Radio FM is located.
According to Ekeoma, the Abia North Planning Authority had repeatedly served the developers all necessary legal notices, requesting they comply with relevant development control laws. However, despite promises to submit documents certifying compliance, the developers failed to do so and continued with the project.
“On three occasions, the site was sealed as required by law by ABNPA, but the developers unlawfully removed government seals and continued their work, an offense punishable by law,” the statement read.
“Like every other media outfit, the Abia State government has no problem with Enyimba FM Aba and did absolutely nothing wrong against the management or staff of the radio station.”
