Abia State: The Abia State Government has designated five historical and natural sites as state heritage monuments as part of efforts to preserve the state’s cultural heritage, boost tourism and create new economic opportunities.
The sites were approved under two categories: State Monuments and State Natural Monuments.
The State Monuments comprise the National War Museum in Umuahia, Ojukwu Bunker in Umuahia and Government College Umuahia.
The State Natural Monuments are Ibom Waterfall in Arochukwu and Ulochukwu Cave in Alayi.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists at the Government House in Umuahia on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu said the designation would strengthen the government’s efforts to preserve Abia’s historical and natural heritage while positioning the sites for wider recognition.
He said the newly designated sites had the potential to attract international attention, including possible recognition by UNESCO.
The commissioner also announced the designation of Aba as a Creative and Innovative City, citing its longstanding commercial, industrial and creative importance.
Kanu disclosed that retrofitting work at the Ojukwu Bunker and National War Museum was about 80 per cent complete and was expected to be finished before the end of the year.
He said the projects would preserve the historical value of the sites, improve visitors’ experience and further strengthen their tourism potential.
The state government has also approved the development of the Ibom Waterfall Tourism Corridor in Arochukwu.
Kanu said the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy had commenced work on the project.
He added that the ministry was erecting monuments at strategic locations across the state to preserve Abia’s heritage, honour historical figures and promote the state’s cultural identity.
One of the monuments is dedicated to the women who participated in the 1929 Aba Women’s revolt, recognising their courage, resilience, resistance and leadership.
The commissioner also addressed reports of alleged excessive taxation in the state, insisting that no new tax increases had been introduced by the present administration.
Kanu said most of the tax rates being circulated were 2020 rates introduced by the previous government.
He explained that the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue Services could not unilaterally increase tax rates without enabling legislation.
The commissioner said demand notices issued by the board were provided for under existing laws and urged taxpayers to comply with legitimate tax obligations.
He also dismissed reports that akara sellers were being asked to pay ₦50,000 in taxes.
Kanu described the claim as false, saying akara sellers do not pay tax or levies but daily tolls, which he said were not as high as ₦50,000.
On outstanding gratuities owed to retired workers by previous administrations, the commissioner said payments covering the period from 2001 to 2010 had been made.
He added that preparations were underway for the next batch covering retirees owed from 2011 to 2025.
The briefing was attended by the Chairman of the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue Services, Uche Elekwachi; Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mathew Ekwuribe; and other government officials.
