The people of Ohafia LGA of Abia North on Friday were filled with excitement following the commencement of the construction of the long neglected Ndi Orieke Ohafia rural road facilitated by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, a representative of the zone in the 10th Assembly.
This project is the latest among the ongoing construction and renovation of structures in the area.
At the flag off ceremony, stakeholders and constituents of the community took turns to appreciate the Senator Kalu for his achievements in the state. According to them, over the past years, politicians had made series of pledges to fix the road but had failed to do so. They acknowledged Senator Kalu to be the first of his kind to have fulfilled his campaign promises.
The road which connects Ndi Orieke–Abia–Akanu communities is expected to open them up for economic activities on completion in no distant future.
Addressing the members of the community, Senator Kalu, who was represented by his Legislative Aide (Ohafia), Barr. Mbila Uma Ayi, said the road was of significance to him. He added that the road would open up the community thereby enabling them to transport their farm produce to the market. “Senator Orji Uzor Kalu being a jinx breaker is here to fix this road just like he did in Abia, Isiugwu and Okon. He is a promise keeper and God’s own working tool. Keep hope alive—as we expect more from him.” He said.
Taking to his social media, the Senator expressed his delight over the road project while promising to do more. “This road is of significant importance to me—just like the Abia, Akanu Ukwu, Ndi Uduma Awoke, and Isiugwu Ohafia roads. Even more propelling is listening to the community leaders narrate how politicians campaigned with the road without executing it,” he stated.
The Traditional ruler of the community, Ezeogo Uja showered praises on Kalu while listing a plethora of other projects executed by the Senator during his tenure as governor of the state. He said, “We benefited a lot from him. The only transformer in this community was installed by him as governor and he gave our children free education from Primary to Secondary level.
Former Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon Ifeanyi Uchendu in a statement on Friday lauded Sen Kalu describing the project as monumental, which marks a significant milestone in the development of the community.
In his statement, the road, when completed, will transform many lives and unlock new opportunities for economic growth and social progress.
“The people of Ndi-Orieke Ohafia and Ohafia in general are filled with immense joy and excitement, knowing that your leadership continues to prioritize their needs and aspirations. Your vision and dedication are deeply appreciated, and we are confident that this project will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of all who live in and travel through Ndi-Orieke Ohafia. Thank you, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, for your tireless efforts, your generosity, and your steadfast leadership,” Hon. Uchendu said.
Also, the youth representative, Nwankwo Kalu expressed the gratitude of the youths to Senator Kalu while assuring him of the cooperation of the youths.