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By Madu Obi
The member representing Anambra East and West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Peter Aniekwe has urged the Federal Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi to urgently facilitate the rehabilitation of the Otuocha -Anam- Nzam-Innoma- Iheaka-Ibaji Ajegwu Federal road linking Anambra and Kogi states, to alleviate suffering of commuters plying the road.
In a motion on the floor of the House of Representatives, Aniekwe highlighted the dilapidated state of the road, emphasizing its significance as a strategic link between Anambra and Kogi states, as well as its importance in the nation's agricultural sector.
According to him, the federal road, spanning 88 kilometres to Lokoja, serves as the shortest route from the South-East to Abuja and other Northern states.
"Due to lack of funds, rehabilitation of this road was halted, leaving it in a deplorable condition. This neglect has not only impacted negatively on the commuters, but also gave room for insecurity, armed robbery, kidnapping and poses serious threat to lives of those traveling along the route,” he said.
Aniekwe observed that over 25 communities in Anambra and Kogi states are directly affected by the poor state of the road, arguing that the predominantly agrarian communities contribute significantly to the nation's agricultural sector.
He said that because of the poor state of the road, about 80 percent of agricultural produce from the area are usually wasted, with the attendant economic losses to the farmers.
Following the motion, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Works to collaborate with the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to commence immediate rehabilitation efforts on the road.
The Committee on Legislative Compliance was also mandated to ensure strict adherence to the resolution.
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