The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Enugu State, Uche Nnaji, has attributed the rising cases of criminality in the state to worsening economic hardship, expressing concern over the deteriorating living conditions of residents.
Nnaji made the remarks on Tuesday during a consultative visit to Enugu indigenes residing in Aba, Abia State, where he alleged that economic activities in some rural markets had declined, forcing traders to operate at night to evade taxation.
In a statement issued by his media campaign team, the governorship hopeful said the situation reflected the growing economic challenges confronting residents across the state.
“So many people do not know what is happening. Markets in the villages have closed, with traders now coming out only at night to avoid paying taxes,” he said.
He further raised concerns over what he described as a resurgence of night-time robbery, alleging that criminals had returned to breaking into residential buildings between midnight and 4am to steal food and other basic valuables.
According to him, the development underscores the severity of hunger and economic hardship among residents.
Meanwhile, Nnaji outlined his economic development agenda, promising to establish three major manufacturing industries within his first two years in office if elected governor in the 2027 governorship election.
He explained that his proposed industrialisation programme would focus on processing locally available raw materials, particularly coal and iron ore deposits in communities including Awhum, Nachi and Nsukka.
The PDP candidate said the initiative would create employment opportunities, stimulate industrial growth and expand economic activities across Enugu State.
Written by Enitan Mudashiru
