The Akpegede axis of the Otukpo-Obi-Oju federal road came alive on Friday as dignitaries gathered to witness the groundbreaking flag-off of the road reconstruction by Senator Abba Patrick Moro, the Senate Minority Leader and representative of Benue South Senatorial District.
The road, which links the Igede nation to other parts of Benue South and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has been in a deplorable state for years, causing hardship to the people.
In his speech, Senator Moro thanked God for the day’s realization, describing the reconstruction of the road as a long-held dream and a personal promise to his people.
His words: “Today, in the annals of our history, we gather here to mark a milestone in our lives. It gives me a personal sense of fulfillment to be the one flagging off the reconstruction of the Otukpo-Obi-Oju road. Since the Second Republic, this road project has been a topic of public discourse, yet its actualization has remained elusive due to limited resources competing with numerous needs.
“I’m not under any illusion, but what should be done must be done. To doomsayers, this task is impossible, but to Abba Moro and incurable optimists, it is possible. My motivation comes from my conscience and commitment to uplifting my constituents, and I am determined to make a difference.
“I have always believed that fighting for the future of our people and generations unborn is why you entrusted me with your mandate. My commitment to making a difference and improving the standard of living of our people is unwavering, and that is why we are here today to flag off the reconstruction of the Otukpo-Obi-Oju road.”
In goodwill messages, notable figures, including Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Adaji, Rt. Hon. Mike Audu, Chief Chris Ijale, Prof. Ogor Omonyi, Hon. George Ali, and Hon. Ekpo Isaac, commended Senator Moro for his quality leadership and representation. They lauded his dedication to the people’s welfare and assured him of continued prayers and support.
The highlight of the ceremony was the formal handover of the road project to the representative of the awarding agency, NBBRI, by Second Class Chiefs of Igede land, HRH Dr. Chris Ijale and HRH Dr. Dan Ulegede, who then handed it over to the contractor, Pees Investment Ltd.
Senator Moro, accompanied by dignitaries, cut the flag-off tape and test-ran the grader to signal the commencement of the reconstruction.