Obiora Omeje, a human rights activist based in Abuja, known as “Zigma,” has voiced his concerns about the dismantled statue of the Iva Valley Coal Miners Massacre in New Market, Enugu State.
The statue was originally erected to honor the memory of 49 coal miners who were shot and killed while protesting for better wages in 1949.
Zigma expressed his disappointment at the prolonged delay in reinstalling the statue after the completion of road rehabilitation.
Speaking on Monday, the Enugu-born activist stated, “That monument has become an iconic symbol of the Coal City of Enugu. When it was removed, various rumors circulated about its intentions until we witnessed the ongoing rehabilitation in the area. I believe they have finished their work and should now bring back the monument. Permanently removing it would be a disservice to our visual history.”
Omeje emphasized that besides their aesthetic and historical significance, such monuments often serve as popular landmarks that aid visitors in navigating the city.
He also pointed out that the New Market area, being an important entry point into the city, requires significant attention to enhance its appearance and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Omeje stressed that the government should handle the area appropriately to prevent it from becoming congested, as it has been in the past.
While advocating for the reopening of the gate, he suggested that only pedestrians should have access, and vehicular traffic should be prohibited. This measure aims to prevent overcrowding around the Coal Miners Massacre Monument Roundabout.
“It would also alleviate the congestion on the Iva Valley road, which has been a nightmare for residents of the suburb,” he added.
