Don't Hinder Progress: Emetu Urges Azumiri Community to Support Road Construction

In a recent meeting at the Government House, Umuahia, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu FNSE, made a passionate appeal to the Azumiri community in Ukwa to stop obstructing the ongoing road construction project in their area, undertaken by the Akwa Ibom State Government.

Emetu expressed his concern over the persistent resistance from members of the Azumiri community, despite previous reassurances from the Abia State Government. He emphasized that the construction company has no intention of annexing any part of Abia into Akwa Ibom, and clarified that only the boundary council has the authority to alter state boundaries.

"The Abia State Government has held discussions with Akwa Ibom about this project, and there are no plans to encroach on Abia land. We are simply grateful that Akwa Ibom is fixing a road that benefits both states," Emetu said.

The Deputy Governor also pointed out the generosity of the Akwa Ibom Government, which stepped in to fix the road, a critical access point that had been neglected for years, causing hardship for neighboring communities. He noted that 90% of the roads inherited by the current administration were in poor condition, and any opportunity for infrastructural improvement should be embraced by the people.

He further announced that the Abia State Government would deploy "Operation CrushÔÇØ to ensure the project continues without further disruptions. Emetu reassured the community that compensation will be provided to anyone whose land or crops are affected by the road construction.

Speaking on behalf of the Azumiri delegates, Barrister Fidelis Nnah expressed gratitude for the Deputy Governor's clarification and reiterated that the community's main concern was to ensure a written agreement between Abia and Akwa Ibom to prevent future boundary disputes. He emphasized that Azumiri had no opposition to the project but wanted assurance of a formal agreement.

Commander Macdonald Ubah (Rtd), the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, assured the community that the Abia State Government would not allow any part of its territory to be taken by another state, urging the community to cooperate fully with the construction company to ensure the project's success.

This road project, crucial to the people of Azumiri and Ukwa, promises to enhance accessibility and boost economic development, as part of the broader infrastructural development plans of the Abia State Government.