The Senate has directed its Committee on Works to investigate the delays in completing repairs on the Odukpani-Itu Highway in Cross River State. This includes examining how funds allocated for the project in various budget cycles have been used. The committee is tasked with summoning relevant agencies such as the Federal Ministry of Works, FERMA, and contractors to provide detailed reports on the highway’s status and the challenges delaying its completion.
The Senate has emphasized the importance of promptly finishing the highway to alleviate the hardships faced by the people and unlock the economic potential of the region. Additionally, a recommendation was made to limit the use of concrete road construction to new projects, allowing existing contracts to use asphalt to expedite progress.
These decisions were made following the Senate’s consideration and approval of a motion titled “Urgent Need to Investigate the Slow Pace of Work on the Odukpani-Itu Federal Highway in Cross River State.” The motion was sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong and co-sponsored by Senator Ekong Sampson. In his presentation, Senator Ekpeyong highlighted the strategic significance of the highway as a crucial route for transportation, commerce, and social integration in the South-East and South-South regions of Nigeria.
He pointed out that the highway plays a vital role in transporting agricultural produce and provides access to tourist attractions. Additionally, the road serves as an essential evacuation route for solid minerals and supports the Calabar Port. Senator Ekpeyong expressed concerns about the prolonged state of disrepair of the highway, causing hardships for commuters, disrupting economic activities, and increasing transportation costs.
He emphasized that completing the Odukpani-Itu Highway is not just about infrastructure development but also a moral and economic obligation to the people of Cross River State and the Niger Delta region. He highlighted the potential economic growth, improved connectivity, and social welfare benefits that would result from finishing the project.
The motion received support from several senators, and the Senate unanimously approved its recommendations through a voice vote led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.