Otti orders palliative works on flooded Opobo–Azumini Federal Highway

Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti has directed immediate palliative measures to address severe flooding on a critical section of the Opobo–Azumini Federal Highway. The affected area, located at Ovom in Obingwa Local Government Area, has made the road virtually impassable during the rainy season.

“

Relief has come for users of the Opobo–Azumini Federal Highway. The section of the road at Ovom Mechanic Village has become difficult to use due to flooding during the rainy season.

The Opobo–Azumini Federal Highway serves as a vital link between Aba in Abia State and several local government areas in Akwa Ibom State, including Azumini, Ika, Etim Ekpo, and Ukanafun. Persistent flooding around the Ovom Mechanic Village has caused the road to deteriorate significantly, despite previous repair attempts.

“

I want to announce that Governor Alex Otti has directed the Commissioner for Works and his team of engineers to carry out immediate palliative works on the section of the road affected by seasonal flooding.

Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu announced the governor's directive, emphasizing that the palliative works are intended to alleviate the hardship faced by motorists and residents. He stated that the intervention is crucial to ensure the road remains usable during the current rainy season.

“

Governor Alex Otti does not discriminate between federal and state roads, provided they are used by Abians.

Kanu also noted the strategic importance of the highway, explaining that the Abia State Government has consistently intervened to maintain its motorability over the past two years, even though it is a federal road. Governor Otti's administration prioritizes infrastructure that impacts the welfare and economic activities of Abia residents, regardless of road ownership. While these temporary measures will ensure passage, Kanu clarified that a permanent solution requires the approval and involvement of the Federal Government.

“

For a permanent solution, the necessary discussions and approvals must be obtained from the Federal Government. What is being undertaken now is temporary rainy season maintenance to ensure that motorists and residents can continue to use the road safely.