The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has given approval for the reconstruction of the long-neglected Omenuko Bridge, located at Ozuabam in the Arochukwu Local Government Area.
The State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, revealed this during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia, on Monday, following this week’s State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Otti.
He stated, “For decades, many politicians have exploited the dilapidated condition of the bridge, making promises to the people in the area, yet none of those promises have been fulfilled.”
“His Excellency, Dr Alex Otti, has ordered that the bridge be reconstructed to serve the people from that area.”
He mentioned that the official launch of the project would be announced shortly, emphasizing that the bridge repair would greatly benefit the people.
The bridge connects Abia North and Abia Central Senatorial Zones. For years, its deteriorating condition has presented a serious safety hazard to travelers, with its narrow structure permitting only one vehicle to cross at a time.
During the rainy season, the situation becomes even more dangerous as floodwaters regularly submerge the bridge. Located at the base of a hill and a sharp bend, this makes the structure particularly hazardous, posing significant risks to commuters who rely on it for daily travel across the region.
Sadly, the bridge has been the site of numerous fatalities, including the deaths of students on their way to take the JAMB examinations.
The commissioner also revealed that, as part of efforts to secure independent power, the state government had submitted the Abia State Electricity Bill to the House of Assembly for review.
He added that a public hearing on the bill would be held on December 18, 2024, urging all stakeholders to take part in the hearing due to its significance.
Kanu emphasized that all key stakeholders are expected to attend and contribute ideas to ensure the smooth passage of the bill, aiming to develop a comprehensive solution to the state’s electricity challenges.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu Monday, highlighted the benefits of the Electricity Bill, noting that it would serve as a catalyst to help the governor achieve his goal of providing reliable electricity access to all Abians.
