Gov. Otti Flags Off Reconstruction Of Umuahia Ikot Ekpene Road, Says No Dichotomy In Fixing Roads.

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, has launched the full reconstruction of the abandoned 25 kilometre Umuahia Ikot Ekpene Road. The event took place at Umuahia Timber Market. He gave an eighteen month completion target.

The Governor titled his remarks The End of a Nightmare. He said the project ends the long suffering of road users and communities along the route. He said his focus on road development is already producing visible results.

Governor Otti said his administration does not draw a line between Federal, State or Local Government roads. He said the majority of those who use the roads are Abians. He said every road in Abia must support economic growth and make movement easier.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for granting approval to the State to handle the road. He also thanked the Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi, for his support. He condemned those who attempted to block the project for selfish reasons.

Senator Austin Akobundu and the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Austin Nmeregini, praised the Governor. They said the road is economically important. They regretted that the road had remained in terrible shape for decades while previous administrations made empty promises.

The Commissioner for Works, Engr Otumchere Oti, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Engr Izuchukwu Onwughara, said the reconstruction breaks a forty year jinx. He described the road as life changing. He said it will have solar street lights and other key features. He urged residents to support the work.

The President General of Ndume Otuka Autonomous Community, Sir John Onyiro, said the road had been used as a campaign tool by past governments. He thanked Governor Otti for delivering action. He said his people will repay the Governor with votes in 2027.

In a live virtual interview, Hon Obi Aguocha of Ikwuano Umuahia Federal Constituency praised the Governor. He said the administration has broken jinxes in all three zones of Abia. He listed Port Harcourt Road and Ohanku Road in the south. He listed Omenuko Bridge and the access to Arochukwu in the north. He listed Umuahia Ikot Ekpene Road and Ariam Usaka Ring Road in the central zone. He said the two new projects directly benefit his constituents.

The flag off attracted many leaders and residents. The mood was hopeful.