Otti Inaugurates Reconstructed Omenuko Bridge, Rehabilitated 30km Abam Road, Ends Years of Risky Crossings

 

Governor Alex Otti has commissioned the reconstructed Omenuko Bridge and the rehabilitated 30-kilometre Amuvi–Ndi Okereke–Abam Road in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, describing the projects as a major step toward ending decades of infrastructural neglect in the area.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Abam community, Otti said the old Omenuko Bridge, built during the colonial era, had deteriorated badly over the years and posed serious danger to residents and commuters.

He noted that the narrow and weakened structure had become notorious for fatal incidents and near-misses, turning what should have been a vital link into a persistent hazard point.

“For decades, our people crossed this bridge in fear. A structure meant to connect communities became a death trap. Today, that narrative has changed,” the governor said.

Otti described the bridge and road rehabilitation as strategic infrastructure interventions designed to improve connectivity, stimulate commerce and raise living standards across the Abam axis and adjoining communities.

According to him, improved access will ease the movement of agricultural produce and reduce post-harvest losses previously suffered by farmers due to the deplorable condition of the road.

“This project goes beyond concrete and asphalt. It is about restoring dignity, expanding access and unlocking economic potential. With this road and bridge in place, our farmers and traders can now reach markets faster and safer,” he said.

The governor paid tribute to victims who lost their lives in past accidents linked to the failed bridge, including two children of the late Reverend Uma Ukpai and 17 students who reportedly drowned in 2007 while travelling for examinations.

“We honour their memory and dedicate this new bridge to them. Such tragedies must never happen again,” he added.

Community leaders, in separate goodwill messages, praised the state government for what they called a historic intervention in the area.

Leader of Abam Onyerubi, Chief James Ume, said the projects had rewritten the development story of the community and restored the people’s pride, while former Secretary to the State Government and President of Abia Leadership Academy, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, described the intervention as evidence of purposeful leadership.

They also cited ongoing works on the Idima Abam–Arochukwu Road and a new General Hospital project as additional efforts expected to strengthen economic and social services in the region.

Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Dr. Christopher Okoro, a native of Idima Abam, said the area had suffered years of neglect but expressed gratitude for the new infrastructure, noting that it would accelerate development and improve livelihoods.