Imo State Government Unveils Ambitious Mass Housing Plans Across Three Zones
In a bold move aimed at addressing the housing deficit and promoting economic growth, the Imo State government has announced an extensive plan to develop mass housing schemes in three strategically selected zones within the state. The initiative, spearheaded by Governor Hope Uzodimma, seeks to provide housing solutions for a diverse range of beneficiaries, including the state’s workforce.
The three zones identified for the housing schemes are Umuoma-Nekede in the Owerri zone, Amara in the Okigwe zone, and Mgbidi in the Orlu zone. Each of these zones will witness the establishment of well-designed and thought-out mass housing projects, accommodating different segments of the population.
To ensure the smooth execution of this ambitious endeavor, Governor Uzodimma has appointed Love Ineh, the State Commissioner for Housing, as the chairperson of the State Mass Housing Committee. This committee will play a pivotal role in overseeing and coordinating the various projects that fall under this initiative. Joining Commissioner Ineh in this crucial task are a roster of distinguished individuals, including Noble Atulegwu, the Commissioner for Lands Survey and Physical Planning; Chinedu Obi, the General Manager of Imo State Housing Corporation; and several other key figures involved in housing and infrastructure development.
Commissioner Ineh, speaking about the project, emphasized its potential to not only address housing needs but also stimulate economic growth by creating new cities and vibrant communities. This initiative, she noted, aligns with the government’s commitment to making housing more affordable and accessible for all residents of Imo State. In her appeal to host communities, she urged cooperation to ensure the successful realization of these housing projects, which promise to be transformative in the state’s landscape.
Highlighting the significance of the undertaking, Ineh assured the public that this initiative marks a historical milestone in the state’s history. The fact that such an extensive mass housing scheme is being rolled out reflects the forward-thinking vision of Governor Uzodimma and underscores the government’s dedication to the welfare of its citizens.
Meanwhile, amidst these promising developments, a state panel focused on land recovery has also been active. This panel has made a noteworthy accusation against former Governor Rochas Okorocha, alleging his forceful acquisition of lands belonging to the Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education (AIFCE) in Owerri. The panel contends that these lands were then allocated to individuals and institutions without proper legal authority.
In their comprehensive report, the panel, led by Prof. Vitalis Ajumbe and Secretary B. F. Anyanwu, accused the Okorocha administration of utilizing aggressive tactics to dispossess occupants of the lands, which were subsequently allocated to Okorocha’s associates. The panel recommends that these lands be returned to the AIFCE authorities within six months, accompanied by a certificate of occupancy.
Furthermore, the panel highlighted the involvement of hoodlums and military personnel in the forceful eviction of land occupants, many of whom were staff members of the institution. The panel urged the relevant authorities to facilitate the removal of these unauthorized occupants, which include prominent figures like Dr. Uzoma Anwuka (Okorocha’s son-in-law), former House of Representatives member Kingsley Uju, and former Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly Dr. Acho Ihim, among others.
Governor Uzodimma received the panel’s report with commendation for their efficiency in executing their mandate. He reiterated the government’s commitment to pursuing a just and peaceful resolution in line with the report’s recommendations, ensuring a fair outcome for all parties involved and upholding the principles of equity and justice. As these two parallel initiatives unfold, Imo State’s trajectory toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant future gains momentum.
