Following the threat by the Federal Government to downgrade the Akanu Ibiam, International Airport, Enugu, due to safety concerns, the State Government has directed officials of Enugu East Local Government Council to find a suitable site for the relocation of Orie Emene Market.
The location of the market near the airport was among the reasons for the threat to downgrade the international airport.
The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Ogbuagu Anikwe, while briefing newsmen in Enugu on Saturday, said that the directive followed “the immediate closure of the market following concerns by the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, FAAN.”
The Minister of State for Aviation, Mr. Hadi Sirika, had during the 6th Stakeholders Forum held in Lagos on Friday, complained about the presence of the market close to the airport, which he said attracted birds.
READ ALSO: Aviation Minister Inaugurates Ibadan Airport Terminal Building
The minister also complained about the runway of the airport.
However, the state government shortly after the news, moved swiftly to announce the immediate closure of the market and the adjoining abattoir.
The Commissioner said that the State Government also ordered immediate removal of illegal structures that encroached on the land of the airport.
He said that the move was to ensure the safety of air travellers and people residing around the airport.
“The State Executive Council directs the LGA Chairman to effect immediate closure of the market,” he said.
Anikwe recalled that the State Executive Council had on Oct. 12, 2018, approved funds for relocation of the Enugu State Broadcast Service mast, which also encroached on the runway.
NAN
