Former Abia State Governor and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has called for urgent Federal Government intervention over the condition of a critical bridge linking Enugu State with Mbala community in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
Kalu made the call during Senate plenary while supporting a motion moved by his colleague, Senator Osita Ngwu, highlighting the challenges facing communities that depend on the bridge for transportation and economic activities.
The former Senate Chief Whip, who disclosed that he visited the area last week, urged the Senate to sympathise with the people of Umunneochi and support efforts to secure the Federal Government’s intervention.
He also endorsed all the prayers contained in Ngwu’s motion, stressing the need for the relevant authorities to urgently address the concerns raised over the bridge.
Kalu noted that the bridge serves as a vital transport link for residents, traders and farmers, facilitating the movement of people and goods between the affected communities.
He emphasised that the route was particularly important to farmers transporting agricultural produce to markets and traders whose businesses depend on the free movement of goods and services.
The senator maintained that Federal Government intervention would provide much-needed relief to residents whose livelihoods and commercial activities rely on the bridge for access to markets and other economic opportunities.
Kalu’s intervention highlights the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure connecting rural communities, particularly roads and bridges that support agricultural commerce, mobility and grassroots economic development.
The lawmakers’ call has renewed attention to the need for appropriate government action to address the concerns surrounding the bridge and ease the challenges confronting residents and business operators who depend on the route.
