Abakaliki–Ikwo–Oferekpe–Obubara Roads: Federal Lawmaker Moves Motion Calling On ContractorsTo Return to Site

A member of the Federal House of Representatives, representing Ikwo/Ezza-South Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions, Rt. Hon. (Comrade) Chinedu Ogah, OON, on Thursday moved a Motion of Urgent Public Importance on the floor of the House, calling for the immediate return of contractors to site and an investigation into the stalled construction of the Abakaliki–Ikwo–Oferekpe–Obubara Roads.

Ogah noted that the road project was originally awarded by the Ebonyi State Government before being taken over by the Federal Government.

He emphasized that the roads are critical national assets and form an essential socio-economic corridor linking Ebonyi State to Cross River State and extending toward Cameroon.

The lawmaker expressed deep concern that the abandonment of the project by contractors has resulted in the tragic loss of more than twenty-five (25) lives due to dangerous excavations and uncompleted portions of the road.

He further lamented that the deplorable state of the road has worsened insecurity, caused severe distress to commuters, and contributed to economic decline in adjoining communities.

Ogah warned that the road has deteriorated into a death trap and breeding ground for robbery and other criminal activities. He added that the abandonment of critical infrastructure has become a recurring issue across the country and must be urgently addressed.

He cautioned that continued neglect of the road would further worsen the region’s economic challenges and heighten threats to lives and property.

The lawmaker commended the Federal Government for taking responsibility for the project, and praised the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for completing numerous federal road projects within the state.

He also acknowledged the commitment and foresight of the Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, especially in tackling road infrastructure decline nationwide.

Ogah stressed the strategic importance of the Abakaliki–Ikwo–Oferekpe–Obubara Roads to national development, noting that their completion would greatly enhance economic activity and improve the wellbeing of residents and commuters. He further highlighted the need for contractor accountability and strict enforcement of project execution standards.

Resolutions of the House:

1. Observe a minute’s silence in honour of those who lost their lives due to the abandoned road project.

2. Commend the Federal Government for taking up this vital infrastructure project, describing it as ambitious, laudable, and essential for the socio-economic wellbeing of Nigerians.

3. Urge the Federal Ministry of Works to urgently mobilize contractors back to the site and ensure immediate continuation of construction work on the Abakaliki–Ikwo–Oferekpe–Obubara Roads.

4. Mandate the House Committees on Works and Legislative Compliance to ensure strict supervision, monitor contractor return to site, and enforce compliance until the project is fully completed.

Ogah further applauded the Ebonyi State Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for his role in advancing infrastructure development within the state. He also commended the Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, who has been mandated by the House to facilitate the prompt return of contractors to the project site to ensure swift implementation.