Gerehu residents oppose resettlement plan

Gerehu residents in N-C-D gathered in numbers on Saturday to discuss and air their frustrations over the lack of consultation on the proposed relocation of settlers at 2-mile and 4-mile, to the suburb.

The forum organized by the Gerehu-for-Gerehu initiative was aimed at gauging views of the residents and the way forward.

While N-C-D Governor, Powes Parkop, announced its a temporary resettlement plan for 6-months until they are moved to Farea at 9-mile, the residents have doubts about that.

Gerehu , one of the largest suburbs in NCD and formerly known for its high crime rates, has been able to significantly reduce that through the voluntary community initiative, Gerehu-for-Gerehu.

The initiative which started 3 years ago, involves local youths working voluntarily with police to combat crime and protect public spaces, including the main bus stop and various residential stages.

A landowner representative from the Ogoni Dabunari clan told the gathering, they were never consulted:

Long time resident and lawyer Asher Waffi, raised concerns on a lack of resources and capacity to cater for this increased population.

A female representative reminded the residents, of the safety of women and girls which will be at stake given the influx of people into Gerehu:

Gerehu-for-Gerehu President Smith Yamanavan told NBC News, says this is in no way an attack on NCDC, however, assurance must be given to the residents on their safety and wellbeing.

NBC News has reached out to NCD Governor Powes Parkop on this matter.