From Uchenna Inya, Abakaliki
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has commenced the dualisation of the Hilltop/Nwode/Ovudechi/Agbaja 39.5km road linking the newly established University of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Oferekpe Agbaja, Izzi local government area of the state.
The road links more than seven communities in the local government.
There have been frequent accidents on the Hilltop axis of the road, which have claimed lives.
Flagging off the project, Nwifuru, represented by the state Commissioner for Works, Lebechi Mbam, said the dualisation would be completed within 18 months.
He expressed optimism that the dualisation would end the frequent crashes on the road.
The Governor said the project was divided into two and awarded to two construction companies because of its volume.
“The importance of this road in the development of our dear state cannot be overemphasised because since I have been passing through this road, I have witnessed three accidents. Accidents have always occurred on this road, and a new university has been established on this road. So, you can imagine how busy this road will be.
“This road also leads to some of the biggest markets in the state: Izogo and Ovudechi markets. People from the South East and other parts of the country come to these markets to buy Ebonyi agricultural products, including rice, yam, garri, palm oil, and other products,” he said.
Chairman of Izzi local government, Stephen Nwankpa, recalled that many deaths have occurred on the Hilltop axis of the road because of its compact nature and commended the Governor for his decision to dualise the road.
Also, Boniface Ezegu, a stakeholder from Ezza-Inyimegu in the local government, lauded Nwifuru for the project.
“We are with you because you know the needs of the people. We will continue to pray and support you. We are happy with the development you are bringing, both infrastructure and economic development.
“The new road will make the community become a satellite town. Please build a bridge to link our people to the Abuja road, and not for our people to be going to Abuja through Enugu, which it is in our backyard. Please, include it in the next fiscal year budget. Ohia Izzi is happy with the state government,” he said.