Omenuko Bridge: Youth Group Applauds Rep. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, Ike Abam, Calls Governor Otti a Listening Governor
Ahead of the flag-off of the reconstruction of the Omenuko Bridge by the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, a youth group under the aegis of the Arochukwu/Ohafia Peace Initiative has commended the lawmaker representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Chief Ibe Okwara Osonwa, and the founder of Unubiko Foundation, Chief Chijioke James Umeh, popularly known as Ike Abam, for their efforts in appealing to the governor to reconstruct the long-abandoned bridge located in Arochukwu LGA.
Omenuko Bridge serves as a crucial link between Abam communities and other towns in Arochukwu and Ohafia LGAs. It also connects Abia North and Abia Central Senatorial Zones and provides access to neighboring communities in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States. Spanning the ancient Igwu River, which holds deep historical importance for the people of Abam Kingdom, the bridge had deteriorated due to years of neglect, leading to tragic loss of lives.
In December 2024, Governor Alex Otti approved the reconstruction of the bridge, fulfilling a long-awaited promise to the people of the area. Announcing the decision after a State Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, highlighted the political manipulation surrounding the bridge in the past. “A lot of politicians have taken undue advantage of the rickety nature of that bridge to make promises to people around that area of the state that they never fulfilled. That bridge, each time you’re driving past before now, you may be scared to your bones,” he said.
As the official flag-off of the project takes place today, Arochukwu/Ohafia Peace Initiative, in a statement signed by its Vice Chairman, Prince Nnanna Kalu, commended Governor Otti for being a listening governor. The group also criticized some politicians from Arochukwu LGA for repeatedly using the bridge as a campaign tool without delivering on their promises.
“We, a youth group under the aegis of Arochukwu/Ohafia Peace Initiative, extend our heartfelt appreciation to Rep. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, Chief Chijioke James Umeh (Ike Abam), and the Secretary to the Abia State Government for their commendable efforts in advocating for the reconstruction of the Omenuko Bridge,” the statement read.
“Their relentless dedication and commitment to the well-being of our communities have not gone unnoticed. By successfully convincing Governor Alex Otti to prioritize this vital infrastructure project, they have demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by our people. The reconstruction of Omenuko Bridge will not only enhance connectivity and boost local commerce but also strengthen the bond within our communities.
“We are confident that this development will pave the way for more transformative projects that will uplift our communities and Abia State as a whole. We urge all stakeholders to continue their collaborative efforts in ensuring the swift and successful completion of this project.
“Once again, we extend our sincere gratitude to Rep. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, Chief Chijioke James Umeh, and the Secretary to the Abia State Government for their unwavering support and dedication to the progress of our community.
“Together, let us continue to strive for a brighter and more prosperous future for Abia State,” the statement concluded.
