The Abia government has awarded a contract to reconstruct the Omenuko Bridge at Ozuabam in Arochukwu LGA.

Information commissioner Okey Kanu stated this on Monday during a press briefing on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held in Umuahia.

Mr Kanu said the bridge, which had been in disrepair, served as a link between Abia North and Abia Central senatorial zones. He described the bridge as significant not only for its infrastructural value but also for its historical and cultural importance.

Mr Kanu said, “This is a bridge that forms the centrepiece of the first Igbo novel ‘Omenuko’. This is a bridge that links up Abia North and Abia Central and for decades, a lot of politicians have taken undue advantage of the rickety nature of that bridge to make campaign promises that were never fulfilled.

“The bridge is like the cleaved hand each time you are driving past the bridge before now you will be scared to your bones.”

He said the reconstruction of the bridge would enhance connectivity, boost local economic activities, and serve as a vital link for residents and travellers in the area.

Mr Kanu said the present administration’s decision to rehabilitate the bridge was informed by its desire to improve critical infrastructure to benefit the citizens.

(NAN)