By Yinka Kolawole

Rivers State government has reiterated its decision to demolish waterfronts in the state capital as part of ongoing efforts to beautify Port Harcourt and its environs, once prided as the Garden City.

Governor Rotimi Amaechi who noted that the move is aimed creating a better living environment for residents, explained that after the demolition, government will sand-fill the areas to pave way for infrastructure development in line with best standards for waterfront settlements.

Amaechi, however, said that the exercise would be in phases, with assurances that proper enumeration and evaluation would be done in the areas to determine the amounts to be paid as  compensation before the commencement of demolition.
He said enumeration and evaluation had been carried out at Njemanze, Abonnema Wharf , Elechi Beach and Nanka Waterfronts, and  advised residents in the remaining waterfronts to cooperate with the enumerators.

The Governor also advised the people of Okrika to support the efforts of government to sanitise and develop waterfronts in the state, as the policy was the best  alternative to improve the lives of those living in urban slums.
He however counseled those who are in the habit of attacking government agents while carrying out their legitimate duties at some of the waterfronts, urging them to desist from such practices as such acts would no longer be tolerated by government.