Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday flagged off the newly completed 46.3-kilometre Joe Irukwu Way, which cuts across Umuahia North, Bende, and Ohafia Local Government Areas in Abia State.
The road, formerly known as Umuahia–Uzuakoli–Ozuitem–Lohum–Nkpa–Umuimenyi–Isuikwuato–Alayi–Item–Igbere–Abiriba Road, was renamed by Governor Alex Otti in memory of the late Joe Irukwu (SAN), an insurance expert and past president of Ohaneze Ndigbo who hailed from the state.
At the inauguration ceremony held in Uzuakoli, Bende LGA, Obasanjo praised the Abia State Government for its resolve in addressing infrastructure needs, even amid economic pressures.
Reflecting on his past experience traveling the road, he described it as exhausting and unpleasant.
However, he expressed amazement that the new road now allows a smooth journey from Umuahia to Abiriba in just 45 minutes.
“When I heard how fast the journey is now, I said, this Governor Alex Otti must be a miracle worker,” he said.
He emphasized that the project would greatly enhance the economy of the state by opening up the rural areas and improving mobility for residents.
Obasanjo also spoke on the values of effective leadership, stressing the importance of vision, selflessness, and a firm stand against corruption.
Commending Governor Otti’s leadership style, the former president urged citizens to support competent leaders regardless of political affiliation. “Party platforms are only a means; what truly matters is the character of the person.
In Alex Otti, we’ve found a leader of great substance,” he added, advising voters not to replace effective leadership.
He also encouraged the public not to overlook the value of good governance and assured the governor of his continued support.
Governor Otti, in his address, described the road as a key achievement in his administration’s goal to transform public infrastructure and deliver durable projects.
He disclosed that the final stretch of the road — from Abiriba to Ohafia — is nearly complete, being executed by a reputable construction firm.
According to the governor, the upgraded road will reduce travel time, improve security, and cut transportation costs for commuters and traders.
He also noted that the improved route now ensures safe and uninterrupted movement at any hour, unlike before when the poor state of the road enabled criminal activity.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South, stated that the project would bring new opportunities and better living conditions for residents. He applauded the state government for continuing to provide meaningful development.
Other stakeholders, including House of Representatives member Obi Aguocha and Bende LGA Chairman Uwabunkeonye Bassey, also expressed gratitude for the completion of the road, saying it would benefit farmers and increase agricultural productivity in the area.
Providing technical details, the Commissioner for Works, Otumchere Oti, explained that the project involved thorough repairs of damaged sections with stone base and binder layers.
He noted that some portions were redesigned to improve elevation and reduce flooding.
The road was surfaced with a 40mm thick asphaltic concrete, while shoulders were finished with 30mm asphalt. Additional components included drainage, culverts, washout repairs, and slope protection works.