The Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Austin Meregini, has moved a matter of Urgent Public Importance, calling for a palliative work to be done on the Umuahia-Ikot-Ekpene road.
In an interaction with our Correspondent, the Deputy Speaker said the House during its plenary session on Tuesday, resolved to call the attention of the executive arm of government, through the Ministry of Works for a palliative work to be done along the Umuahia -Ikot-Ekpene road to ease movement of road users in the yuletide season.
He said the proactive approach would also help to boost economic activity, as smoother transportation networks are essential for businesses and individuals alike. “With the festive season around the corner, completing these palliative works will be a welcome relief for everyone”.
RT. Hon Austin Meregini hinted that the Commissioner of Works has been invited for an executive session in the House of Assembly, stating that the House Committee on Works was equally instructed to carry out effective collaboration with the Ministry of Works to ensure that a smooth palliative work is done on the road which has posed several difficulties to commuters.
He disclosed that while they wait for the State government’s intervention, road users, as well as, residents are advised to reduce the abuse of roads, by stopping the indiscriminate dumping of refuse on drainages.
The Lawmaker emphasized the need for Abians to stop illegally dumping trash in drainages, as this is a major contributor to the frequent road failures. He added that Ndi Abia should support government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and overall quality of life,as the proper maintenance of these drainages is crucial for preventing road damages and thereby, ensuring the longevity of these critical pathways.
The Deputy Speaker further stated that the reconstruction of the Umuahia-Ikot-Ekpene was awarded by the Federal government to hartland construction company, who had since left site, leaving some sections of the road to dilapidate, particularly the Ndume axis to the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU).
He said carrying out palliative work on the road has become a top priority, because the majority of road users are Abia residents and fixing the road will greatly improve traffic flow, especially during the upcoming festive season, making travelling easier for motorists and as well, contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
