The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has declared that he will not commission the newly constructed 5.5-kilometre Ozuitem–Uzuakoli road in Abia State until a failed section of approximately 10 metres is fully repaired.
The decision was announced in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, following Kalu’s inspection of the project on Tuesday.
The Deputy Speaker’s stance came shortly after he commissioned the 5-kilometre Alayi–Ugwueke–Akaeze road—a key interstate link connecting Bende Local Government Area of Abia State to Akaeze in Ebonyi State. The project is among several constituency interventions facilitated by Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency.
Speaking on the Ozuitem–Uzuakoli road, Kalu emphasized that it is receiving its first asphalt overlay since its original construction in 1981 during the administration of late Governor Sam Mbakwe of the defunct Imo State. He insisted that the project would not be inaugurated until all identified defects are addressed.
Kalu has directed the contractors to return to site immediately to fix the failed portions, ensuring durability and safety. The affected section has already been excavated and is set to be rehabilitated with stone base, cement pavement, and asphalt.
“I will not commission that road until the repairs are completed,” Kalu stated firmly. “For me, it is about leadership and delivering on promises. When issues arise during construction, contractors are expected to return and fix them.”
He further clarified that the road, which has been circulating on social media, remains under construction and has not been commissioned.
The Deputy Speaker explained that the 5.5km road reconnects Ozuitem and Uzuakoli through the Elugwumba community—a route he promised to restore during his campaign.
“There was no direct connection between Ozuitem and Uzuakoli through Elugwumba community until we made it one of our campaign promises. The APC promised to fix the road, and with the support of Mr. President, we have delivered. However, those failed sections must be properly fixed before commissioning,” he added.
Kalu’s refusal to commission an incomplete project underscores his commitment to quality and accountability in constituency projects—a stance likely to resonate with constituents and observers ahead of future elections.
