The demolition of the popular New Berries Park along the Enugu–Abakaliki Road has sparked widespread reactions, with business operators expressing concern over potential job losses and the impact on private investment in Enugu State.
The multi-million-naira leisure facility was reportedly pulled down over the weekend, leaving workers and patrons shocked as questions mount over the circumstances surrounding the demolition.
Popular Leisure Park Reduced to Rubble
New Berries Park, located beside the Old Government Lodge and within the same premises as the National Museum in Enugu, was one of the city’s well-known relaxation and entertainment centres.
As of the time of filing this report, the Enugu State Government had not officially confirmed whether it ordered the demolition or explained the reasons behind the action.
Bar Owners’ Former Chairman Condemns Demolition
Reacting to the development, former Chairman of the Bar Owners Association of Enugu State, Mazi Hilary Onah, described the demolition as a setback for employment and private enterprise.
According to him, the park provided jobs for many residents whose livelihoods have now been disrupted.
Onah also expressed disappointment, alleging that recent government policies have negatively affected businesses in the state’s hospitality sector.
“My heart bleeds. I weep for all the members of the Bar Owners Association of Enugu State,” he said, while claiming he had expected greater support for businesses because of Governor Peter Mbah’s private-sector background.
He further alleged that restrictions affecting entertainment businesses had weakened the hospitality industry in the state.
Noise Pollution Law Cited
A source at the demolished facility, who declined to be identified, suggested that the park had previously faced enforcement actions following the enactment of the state’s noise pollution regulations in 2024.
According to the source, officials had repeatedly warned operators to suspend weekly live entertainment events because of complaints from nearby residents.
The source also claimed that the park held a lease agreement with the Federal Government that had not yet expired, although this could not be independently verified.
Government’s Noise Control Policy
In 2024, the Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), Uche Anya, announced measures aimed at tackling noise pollution across the state.
The directive required churches, mosques, and hospitality businesses operating in residential areas to remove outdoor loudspeakers within 90 days and install soundproofing systems.
At the time, Anya said the authority had received more than 1,000 complaints from residents concerning noise pollution across several parts of Enugu metropolis.
Questions Remain Unanswered
Attempts to reach the Chief Executive Officer of New Berries Park were unsuccessful, as his phone line was reportedly switched off.
Meanwhile, the Enugu State Government has yet to clarify whether it authorised the demolition, the legal basis for the action, or whether compensation or alternative arrangements would be made for those affected.
The demolition has reignited debate over the balance between urban development, environmental regulation, and the protection of private investments.
While business operators argue the action threatens jobs and investor confidence, the state government has not yet stated whether the demolition was connected to regulatory enforcement, land administration, or another official policy…..See More
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