AKWA-IBOM-It’s on record that since the inception of Udom’s government, Estate Surveyors & Valuers (professionals) can no longer operate successfully within the shores of Akwa Ibom State.
Some firms paid off their staff while some who can’t afford the running cost rather shut down their offices in Uyo.
Ministry of Lands is assigned with the responsibility of land acquisitions and compensation matters. Government can also retain the services of a Consultant.
The case is the direct opposite in Akwa Ibom State, Commissioner for Works, Ephraim Inyangenyen has outrightly refused to follow due process in land acquisitions. Although it’s the responsibility of the Ministry of Lands to carry out land acquisitions, Ministry of Works took over the function of Lands and appointed two Consultants, Valuers Billy Owodimo an indigene of Onna is the valuer handling Etinan Awah Road, and Isua Akpaso is the valuer handling Ikot Oku Ikono (Ekom Iman Junction) to Etinan for enumeration exercise and compensations. Arkway Projects limited was appointed to pay compensation.
From our investigation, it has been revealed that owners of Properties along these roads do not get a FAIR COMPENSATION for their properties being demolished for the right of way.
It is also on record that Arkway deducted 10% consultant fee meant for Estate Surveyors & Valuers without paying them over three years when asked, he said “they should get it from property owners as against the practice and due process.
Ephraim Inyangenyen on his return from the EFCC where he was detained over the night, summoned the Executive Members of Estate Surveyors & Valuers, Akwa Ibom State branch to his house on a Sunday evening to beg them and promised to pay all their outstanding as it is being sorted.
The Commissioner, Ephraim Inyangenyen had refused tendering documents to EFCC, saying until the Governor approves same.
Meanwhile, EFCC investigation is ongoing and the Commissioner is running from pillar to post to cover the multiple frauds going on in his Ministry
