Nigeria: York Street Aba: From notorious hard drug spot to busy motor park

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

York Street in Aba, Abia State, was once a dreaded spot for hard drug business, phone snatching, and other criminal activities. The area was controlled by local drug users and sellers, making it a hub for illicit activities. Residents and visitors avoided the area due to the high risk of attack and robbery.

However, thanks to the efforts of the former state Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mrs. Florence Ezeonye, and the state government, York Street has been transformed into a busy motor park. The area now hosts intercity buses and other businesses, with drug dealers sacked from the premises.

A trader in the area said, “What went on in York Street was awful. We thank God that the government and the NDLEA finally saw the need to stop the hard drug business in the place.” Residents and visitors now throng York Street, going about their businesses without fear.

The transformation of York Street is a testament to the power of collective efforts in fighting crime and promoting community development. The Chairman of the Civil Liberties Organization, CLO, Aba Unit, Prof Charles Chinekezi, praised the efforts, saying, “York Street was an eyesore and terror to the people. We cried out to the government, and they finally acted.”