GOV OTTI BEGINS RECONSTRUCTION OF OHAFIA -AROCHUKWU ROAD

REPORTER: PEACE AGBO

Abia State Government says it will continue to reduce the burden facing the people by creating economic-advancement opportunities within communities, and builing new systems of advantages for the next generation in the state.

Governor Alex Otti, who stated this at the commencement of the reconstruction of the 14.4km Ohafia-Arochukwu road (beginning from the popular Old Soldier Junction Ebem Ohafia), said the project would be ready within 18 months.

The Governor said that the reconstruction of the aged long abandoned federal high way would put an end to the nightmare and give over 60 communities and clans around the route a new lease of life.

According to the Governor, fixing of the road would boost socio-economic activities and tourism as individuals and families from far and wide visit many important National Heritage Sites in Arochukwu for research and leisure purposes.

He appealed to the federal government to consider making the necessary financial provisions to reimburse the State Government for the reconstructing the federal road, considering its economic impacts, especially for federal revenue.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Works, Mr. Otumchere Oti, said the reconstruction of the road would mark a major turning point in the social political development of Ohafia and Arochukwu as it would automatically revitalize businesses within the areas.

He pledged that the project would be delivered according to time and specification and advised people of the areas to give maximum assistance to the contractor handling the project.

In their separate remarks, an Elder statesman and former Finance Minister, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu; the Member representing Arochukwu Ohafia Federal Constituency, Chief Ibe Osonwa; the Deputy Governor, Mr. Ikechukwu Emetu; and Eze Aro; and the Chairman of Ohafia Local Government, Chief David Ogba, all thanked Governor Alex Otti for taking the bold step to reconstruct the long abandoned road.

They noted the gesture marked an economic rejuvenation of Abia North zone and promised to give the contractor the needed support to deliver the project according to specifications.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU