Residents of Abeka Free Pipe near Apenkwa can finally reach their homes after years of difficulties, thanks to a significant decongestion effort by the Okaikwei North Municipal Assembly on Friday.
The operation, led by the Assembly’s taskforce, resulted in the removal of two large metallic containers owned by BIC MAC Block Works, a block manufacturing company that had completely obstructed the only road to the community.
This blockage also put residents at risk of severe flooding from a nearby storm drain, leaving many stranded during heavy rains.
Sources within the taskforce indicated that the Assembly acted only after the company repeatedly ignored official notices, warnings, and requests for documentation proving ownership of the land where the containers were located.
Previous attempts to enforce compliance—including the removal of the container doors—were also disregarded, as the owner allegedly reattached them without responding to the Assembly.
Confronted with ongoing defiance, the Assembly mobilized its taskforce on Friday to lift and transport the containers to its premises at Achimota.
The structures, which served as a cement depot and sales point, were disconnected from electricity before their removal. No significant damage occurred during the operation apart from the power disconnection and the lifting process.
It is still uncertain whether the Assembly will charge the owner of the block factory for the cost of transporting the containers. Efforts to get comments from both the taskforce and the owner were unsuccessful.
Friday’s operation adds to a series of decongestion efforts happening across Accra, following a similar action taken by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly around the Korle Bu area earlier in the week.
The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has stepped up efforts to restore order, enhance mobility, and beautify the capital.
Relieved residents, who had long lost hope of intervention, expressed gratitude to the Municipal Chief Executive and his team for finally responding to their plight.
Many said the restored access marks the first real step toward improving safety and quality of life in the community.