The House of Representatives has called upon the Federal Ministry of Works to initiate the construction of Section V of the East-West Road…CONTINUE READING
In addition, the House has tasked the Committees on Works and Appropriations with including provisions for the road’s construction in the 2024 budget estimate.
These resolutions were adopted following a motion presented by Hon. Bassey Akiba, Hon. Mike Etaba, Hon. Alex Egbona, Hon. Joseph Bassey, Hon. Emil Inyang, Hon. Victor Abang, Hon. Peter Akpanke, and Hon. Godwin Offiong.
The House acknowledged that the East-West Road, a 388-kilometer Federal Trunk A2 dual carriageway, connects the Niger-Delta states and the Ikom Federal Trunk A4 road. Originally designed with 42 bridges and 1000 culverts, it was awarded a contract worth N246 billion in 2006.
Furthermore, the House recognized that the road is divided into five sections, including Warri – Kaiama in Delta/Bayelsa State, Port Harcourt–Ahoada–Kaiama in Rivers/Bayelsa State, Eleme – Onne – Ete in Rivers/Akwa Ibom State, and Ikot Abasi – Eket–Oron Road in Akwa Ibom/Cross River State.
Sections I to IV of the road have reached 85 percent completion, and the Federal Government has allocated funds for a new bypass and other related works.
This has led to an increase in the contract sum from N246 billion to N506 billion, with more than 80% of the funds already disbursed.
The House expressed concern that the construction of section IV of the 30km dual carriageway from Oron to Calabar is still ongoing, despite being awarded by the Federal government.
The road, which connects Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, is in a deteriorated condition with potholes causing significant inconveniences and compelling commuters to resort to sea travel.
