Vindication at Last: Gov Otti Flags Off Ikot Ekpene–Ikwuano–Umuahia Road as Ubani, Icheku’s Advocacy Triumphs
Governor Alex Otti flags off the long-awaited reconstruction of the 25km Ikot Ekpene–Ikwuano–Umuahia Road after securing Federal approval. The project ends years of neglect, economic hardship, and political sabotage, bringing hope and renewed development to Abia communities.
By Tony Icheku
Finally, on Friday, October 24, 2025, Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti will usher in relief and joyous celebrations for communities along the 25-kilometre stretch of the Ikot Ekpene–Ikwuano–Umuahia Road.
On that day, he will officially flag off the reconstruction of the long-abandoned Federal road—an achievement made possible after securing the necessary approvals and overcoming internal sabotage allegedly mounted by certain pseudo-evangelists and rabble-rousers who, ironically, have also endured the same suffering on that route for the past nine years.
The contract for the road’s rehabilitation was originally awarded to Hartland Company Limited, but the project had stalled due to neglect and bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Gov Otti’s Determination and Breakthrough
Since assuming office, Gov Otti has displayed efficiency, transparency, and a business-like approach to governance. Residents of Ikwuano and Umuahia North LGAs are confident that what he begins, he will complete.
According to Gov Otti, “Unfortunately, some individuals from our own state tried to frustrate the approval process, which truly calls their patriotism into question. Thankfully, we have overcome those challenges, and the project will be officially flagged off.”
He added: “By next Friday, October 24, we will be flagging off the 25-kilometre Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road project. Although it is a Federal road, we obtained the necessary approval to reconstruct it.”
The governor further queried: “How can you not want the road that passes through your father’s house to be built—and still call yourself a patriotic leader?”
Though he refrained from naming individuals, Ikwuano residents know exactly who he meant.
The Long Struggle for Reconstruction
The Ikot Ekpene–Ikwuano–Umuahia Road was awarded in May 2019 to Messrs Hartland Nigeria Limited / Raycon and Company Nigeria Limited for ₦13.29 billion. However, the project proceeded in fits and starts, often grinding to a complete halt.
If not for the relentless intervention of Dr. Monday Ubani, SAN, the road might have been abandoned completely.
As the then 2nd National Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Ubani wrote to former President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2021, lamenting the abandonment of the project and its devastating impact on commuters.
In his letter dated October 1, 2021, Ubani cited the death of Miss Chidinma Ogbonna, a 500-level student of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, who was killed in an accident caused by the deplorable state of the road.
He queried: “Why will such an important road be left without dualization and proper reconstruction? How competent is the contractor handling the project? The work done so far is utterly poor.”
Ubani urged President Buhari to “release funds for the project and ensure proper supervision to guarantee quality and lasting work.”
The Renewed Hope Appeal
When the Buhari administration failed to act, Ubani wrote again—this time to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on April 7, 2025, describing the road as a “death trap” and “a major hindrance to economic and social activities.”
He revealed that Hartland Construction Company had given multiple excuses, including lack of funds and bad weather, but that “the pace not only slowed—it eventually halted.”
Ubani emphasized: “For over twenty years, our people have endured unbearable suffering on this route. The region now feels clearly disadvantaged and neglected.”
He urged President Tinubu to “activate the Renewed Hope Agenda” by directing the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, to investigate and ensure the project’s completion.
“The people of Ikwuano will be eternally grateful if your administration addresses this critical matter before the rains return,” he concluded.
Despite backlash from some quarters, Ubani’s advocacy, alongside that of journalist Tony Icheku, helped sustain public attention on the road—eventually paving the way for Gov Otti’s intervention.
Other Efforts and the Road Ahead
Former lawmaker Hon. Sam Onuigbo, who represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North/South Federal Constituency, also made commendable efforts to ensure the project’s inclusion in the 2019 Federal Budget. However, bureaucratic delays and funding issues hindered progress, even after the project was moved to the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme.
The Otti administration’s takeover of the reconstruction is therefore a vindication of the efforts of Dr. Monday Ubani and journalist Tony Icheku, both of whom were once defamed and threatened for exposing lapses in the project’s execution.
As the Scriptures say, “When the righteous rule, the people rejoice.” And indeed, Ikwuano is rejoicing today.
Economic and Social Impact
Gov Otti’s aide, Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa, underscored the broader implications of the project, stating:
“Beyond symbolism, the socio-economic impact of this road is profound. It will open new corridors for trade and industrial growth, enhance mobility between Abia’s agricultural belts and major markets, and attract investors to previously inaccessible communities. It will create jobs, reduce transport costs, and improve quality of life. In essence, these roads are the building blocks of sustainable prosperity—a tangible proof that a government driven by vision and integrity can truly change lives.”
