The Abia State government has announced its intention to kickstart the construction of expanded roads in Owerrinta and Onuimo, located in Isialangwa South and Umuahia South, respectively. Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, disclosed this during a press briefing in Umuahia, following the Executive Council Meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti, OFR.
Prince Kanu assured the public that the government is committed to following due process to manage any potential displacement of individuals during the Owerrinta and Onuimo road projects. Drawing inspiration from the successful experience with Ossah road, where communities and affected parties were seamlessly handled, the government aims to replicate this approach in the upcoming projects.
Highlighting the success of the Ossah road as a blueprint, the Commissioner emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring a smooth execution for Owerrinta and Onuimo projects. He stated, “Due process would be followed for those affected, as seen in the seamless handling of communities and individuals during the Ossah road project. The same approach will apply to Onuimo, which is the second phase after Ossah.”
Prince Kanu highlighted the transformative impact of the Zero Pothole Initiative, stating that it has evolved into a state policy. He declared, “The Government has taken a position, and it is now a policy that any pothole seen around the State will disappear in a matter of days, continuing until the end of this administration.”
Updating on ongoing projects, Prince Okey Kanu mentioned the commencement of the fencing of the Lokpanta Cattle Market and the upcoming Small Town Water Project set to begin in the first quarter of the year. Regarding power infrastructure, he affirmed the government’s commitment to investing in the sector and distributing transformers to areas in need.
The Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu Monday, added that plans are underway to replace faulty electricity transformers across the State, assuring all affected areas of the government’s support.
Present at the briefing were the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Culture, Sir Chris Onwuegbu, and the State Director of Information, Mrs. Ugoch Ihediwa.
Azubuike Jinanwa/Divine Nwankwo
Govt. House Press, Umuahia.
