The Abia State House of Assembly under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, has received applause from a rights group, the Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS), for demonstrating a balanced approach to governance through its recent deliberations on two significant matters.
The two matters include the motion addressing road obstructions by generator traders along Port Harcourt Road, Aba, and the passage of the Abia State Startup Bill, 2025 (H.A.B. 32).
The House took the proactive legislative action towards addressing the growing obstruction and safety challenges caused by traders operating along the newly reconstructed Port Harcourt Road, Aba.
It resolved to grant a 14-day compliance window before enforcement, which the CEHRAWS said, reflects a commendable regard for due process and public interest.
In a statement made available to The News Chronicle’ correspondent, the Executive Director of the CEHRAWS, Comrade Chuka Okoye, while supporting efforts to restore urban order and ensure public safety, called on the Abia State Task Force and other implementing agencies to carry out enforcement actions within the bounds of human rights and fairness, ensuring that traders are treated with dignity and respect.
He advised that enforcement must not involve excessive force, arbitrary confiscation, or destruction of goods, as such would contravene the right to property and livelihood protected under Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, Cap A9, LFN 2004.
The CEHRAWS boss called on the Abia State Ministry of Trade and Investment and local government councils to engage affected traders in dialogue and allocate designated market spaces to prevent economic displacement and promote inclusive urban management.
The CEHRAWS also hailed the passage of the Abia State Startup Bill, 2025, sponsored by Hon. Uchenna Okoro, describing it as a forward-looking legislation that will empower Abia’s youth, foster innovation, and stimulate economic growth.
The new law, once assented to by Dr. Alex C. Otti, Governor of Abia State, will provide a framework for nurturing startups and digital enterprises, in alignment with the National Startup Act, 2022.
“CEHRAWS believes this initiative will help unlock the potential of young innovators, create sustainable jobs, attract investment, and position Abia as a technology and enterprise hub in the South-East,” Okoye said.
“The passage of the Bill also aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), reinforcing Abia’s commitment to inclusive development and modern governance.
“CEHRAWS acknowledges that such dual focus on immediate social order and long-term economic innovation demonstrates responsible and people-centered governance.
