Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, alongside former Chief of Army Staff, Azubuike Ihejirika, has commissioned the reconstructed 30-kilometre Ozu Abam–Ndi Okereke–Okobo–Amuvi–Arochukwu Road and the newly built Omenuko Bridge in Arochukwu Local Government Area of the state.
The projects include the replacement of the old Omenuko Bridge over the Igwu River long described by residents as unsafe and the rehabilitation of the key access road linking several Abam and Arochukwu communities. The road and bridge had reportedly suffered decades of neglect under previous administrations.
Speaking at a reception held at Ozu Abam High School after the commissioning, Governor Otti titled his address “At Last, the Jinx Is Broken,” describing the projects as landmark interventions with major social and economic value. He said the delivery reflects his administration’s resolve to reverse years of infrastructure decay and open up rural communities for growth and commerce.
The governor became emotional while recalling past fatalities linked to the former bridge, offering condolences to families who lost loved ones in accidents at the crossing over the years. He said the new structure would end a painful chapter of avoidable tragedies and restore safe passage for residents, students, and traders.
Otti also used the occasion to announce the confirmation of Emmanuel Meribeole as substantive Secretary to the State Government, while former SSG Kenneth Kalu was named President of the Abia State Leadership Academy.
Commissioning the projects, Ihejirika praised the governor for delivering critical infrastructure that directly impacts communities, noting that the road and bridge would significantly improve connectivity and local economic activity.
Abia Works Commissioner Otumchere Oti said the new road network would reduce travel stress for residents who previously had to pass through neighboring states to reach Arochukwu. Lawmakers representing the area and other stakeholders described the commissioning as historic and thanked the state government for the interventions.
The event drew traditional leaders, political figures, and community groups, with cultural displays staged to celebrate the completion and opening of the projects for public use.
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