In a major move to tackle worsening regional insecurity and economic stagnation, the House of Representatives has called for the immediate rehabilitation and illumination of the vital interstate road connecting Imo and Anambra states.
The motion, sponsored by Hon. Canice Moore C. Nwachukwu, highlights the severe degradation of the strategic corridor that links Amaifeke (Nkwuito Junction), Okwuabala, Ogberuru, Obibi Ochasi, and Ihiteowere in Orlu Local Government Area ( Rural Electrification Agency) to the Akwa Ihedi and Osumenyi communities in Nnewi South Local Government Area (Anambra State).
Despite its historical role as a fundamental driver of trade, social interaction, and cultural integration between the two states, the road has fallen into a deplorable state. What was once a swift one-hour trip now stretches into a grueling five-hour ordeal.
To bypass the worst sections, commuters are forced to take lengthy detours through neighboring villages, driving up transportation costs and creating severe economic hardship for local businesses, farmers, and traders.
The structural failure of the road has evolved from a transit issue into a major security crisis:
- Advanced erosion, deep gullies, and massive potholes have made the route treacherous and nearly impassable.
- Due to its isolation and a complete lack of street lighting, criminal elements have turned the dilapidated sections into blind spots to ambush and attack travelers.
- The absence of nighttime visibility has effectively halted night travel, crippled the local evening economy, and left vulnerable border communities isolated.
Hon. Nwachukwu emphasized that restoring this infrastructure and installing high-intensity solar streetlights will immediately reclaim the corridor from criminals, reduce travel times, and revive socio-economic ties.
To ensure swift intervention, the House of Representatives officially resolved to:
- Call upon the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to immediately initiate the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the affected inter-state corridor.
- Direct the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to install high-intensity solar streetlights along the entire stretch to eliminate dark zones, enhance visibility, and boost nighttime security.
- Mandate the House Committees on Works, FERMA, and the National Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to oversee strict compliance and ensure that both critical projects are captured in the upcoming 2027 budget estimates.
