AKHA urges Eno to investigate abandoned Nsit Atai-Oron Road

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The Akwa Ibom House of Assembly in its resolution has urged Gov Umo Eno to direct a thorough investigation into the Nsit Atai-Oron Road contract project awarded by the previous administrations in the state.

The resolution of the House was a sequel to a motion brought before the House at plenary on Tuesday by Mr Effiong Johnson, Chief Whip and member representing Mbo State Constituency.

Johnson in his motion of urgent public importance, drew the attention of the House to the non-completion of work on the road 17 years after the contract was awarded.

The House also directed the House Committee on Works and Transport to undertake an on-the-spot assessment of the road project and interface with the Ministry of Works on the matter.

Earlier in his motion, Johnson had informed the House that the decision to construct the Nsit-Atai-Oron Road was taken following the closing of the traditional route to Oron through the Ituk Mbang, Ekpene Ukim and Ndon Ebom Road, due to the construction of Victor Attah International Airport.

He disclosed that the initial contract for the road project was awarded by the Godswill Akpabio-led administration in 2006 and later re-awarded by the Udom Emmanuel administration.

The lawmaker added that former Gov Udom Emmanuel had revoked the contract for the construction of the 29 km road and re-awarded same to another construction firm in 2021 with the resolve of the government to complete the road before May 29, 2023.

He expressed displeasure that the road has currently been rendered almost impassable due to excavation by the construction firm, and has turned into a death trap.

Johnson in his motion pleaded that urgent steps be taken to complete the road in the interest of the general public.

The Speaker, Mr Udeme Otong, directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs Nsikakabasi Orok, to forward the resolution of the House to the governor for action.

Meanwhile, a bill sponsored by Mr Ukpong Akpabio, a member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, passed through its first reading.

The bill titled, “HAB 302 is for a law to provide for the development and regulation of fisheries in Akwa Ibom State and for other purposes connected thereto.

The House adjourned plenary to reconvene on Thursday, August 10.