In 2007/2008, when Governor Ikedi Ohakim of Imo state came into office, the atmosphere looked so promising. Imo was supposed to be 'Clean and Green'. Toes were stepped on, and a lot of people were aggrieved. But then, to make things right, such wasn't unexpected. That is Owerri, the self-acclaimed relaxation city in Eastern Nigeria.
A few kilometres away, governor T.A Orji was doing the same. The difference was in business, rather than pleasure.
Aba, the self-acclaimed business hub of the Eastern Nigeria was to 'benefit' from the same favour. The governor had everything good in mind. But he made a grave error of comparing 'making money' with 'spending money'. He compared Aba, where the money is made, with Owerri, where it is spent. The result was disastrous. Electronics and phone dealers were kept hungry for days. They were told to move to an obscure location. Movie marketers lost more than they gained. Before they ever entered their shops at Pound Road, the pockets of the very cash-loving 'Mopol' must be filled, afterall the governor didn't want them there. Logic met reason, and they were left alone. The world seemed a better place. Did it end there?
They were welcome to the 2nd half or 2011 with a shocker. Without warning, they have been pushed away again. Their shops have been destroyed by touts who are always ready to cause havoc. Why? The governor wants them out. They must go to another location.
I ask, what has prompted this U-turn, after four years?
"He hates we in Aba", says one.
"Lies. He wants the best", I replied.
Yes, he does. He wants to do the right thing, but in a wrong way. A note of warning: Turning Aba to Calabar is impossible. But we can try make it look like the new Oshodi...but not the way you're going, sir.
Sorry, if I sound confusing, guys. But those who know Enyimba city, and understand what 'York' means, would get me.
S.O.S!