In a move to address urgent infrastructure concerns, the Abia State House of Assembly has passed a resolution directing its committee on works to collaborate with the Ministry of Works to conduct palliative repairs on the collapsed Mbato Ofeme Bridge in Umuahia North LGA.
This bridge, which had crumbled, severed vital connections for the community, leaving them isolated from the rest of the state.
The resolution, announced by the Speaker, Emmanuel Emeruwa, underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing critical infrastructure across all regions, including rural communities.
It followed a passionate Matter of Urgent Public Importance raised by Mr. Anderson Akaliro, the representative of Umuahia North constituency. Akaliro highlighted the dire consequences of the collapsed bridge and urgently appealed for action, stressing that if not addressed before the onset of the rainy season, the situation could worsen, leaving his constituents in further distress.
Additionally, the House passed another resolution calling on the State government to provide support for various local government areas and empower the Abia State Road Funds Administration Board, along with the Abia State Rural Access Road Agency, to initiate repairs on more rural roads statewide.
This resolution followed a similar plea from Chijioke Uruakpa, the representative of Ugwunagbo constituency, who raised concerns about the deteriorating conditions of rural roads in Wards 4, 6, and 7 in his area.
The call for swift rehabilitation has become an urgent priority, as these roads are in critical need of repair to prevent further hardship.