Abia State Governor Alex Otti on Wednesday  flagged off the 6-lane  expansion of the Ossah-Umuahia Road, being the major entry into Umuahia, the State capital


The governor,  speaking during the flag off of the project, hinted that the 6-lane expansion might be extended to Onuimo junction, Abia State border with Imo State


The governor explained that the road expansion was intended to check traffic jam during festive period and up grade the status of the capital city.


He also noted that issues bordering on the road design and settlement of those whose structures were affected by the project were resolved before flag off


He added that the Craneburg Construction company whom the job was given to is a reputable international organization and  will deliver the job on time.


“It has been difficult getting to this stage of the flag off of this road. We had to settle all issues that came right from the conception of this project before we came to flag off.


“The money for the payment of compensation is ready and the owners of the 130 building that were affected have started receiving their monies, while those who have not received their own may be as a result of some bureaucratic hitches will get theirs soon.


“I know the engineers handling the project will want to finish it on time, but before they get to the express tower, we would have concluded agreement to 


In his speech the Commissioner for Works in the state Engr. Otumchere Oti, commended the governor for his steadfastness for the project to take off.


He disclosed that the road will have six lanes with drains and walk ways on either sides.


In their responses, some traditional rulers from the community, Eze Iheanyichukwu Ezeigbo and Eze Chiabuotu Emelike, commended the governor for the project adding that their subjects are happy that the state government remembered them.


They said,”The road expansion is very laudable, the people of Ossah are happy because we believe that the expansion of the road will attract development and improve the beauty of our community.


“Our people demanded for compensation and the government has started paying some and believe that the governor’s word that all those whose structures will be affected by the road expansion will be compensated".