Imo transport unions hold solidarity match for Uzodimma’s road revolution
By Athan Agbakwuru, Owerri
Imo State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Emeka Okoronkwo, on Friday led members of the various transport unions in the state on a solidarity march to Governor Hope Uzodimma in appreciation of ongoing improvements in road infrastructure and connectivity across the state.
The solidarity rally saw leaders and members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, (NURTW), Tricycle Riders Union, (TRU), and the Motorcycle Union, (OKADA), march in large numbers from Dan Anyiam Stadium to the Government House in Owerri.
The massive crowd which took over Owerri and literally bringing the capital city to a standstill sang songs of solidarity in praise of the Governor’s feat in improving the road infrastructure in the state.
Speaking, the unions through the NURTW Chairman, Imo chapter, Comrade Jeff Eze, expressed gratitude to Governor Uzodimma for what they described as ‘significant improvements’ in the state’s road network, noting that the rehabilitation and construction of roads have reduced vehicle breakdowns and maintenance costs for transport operators.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with newsmen, Okoronkwo attributed the transformation in the transport sector to the governor’s administrative ingenuity and passion for providing quality infrastructure to the citizens.
His words, “We came to demonstrate our gratitude to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, for what he has done in the transport sector. Everything you are seeing working well in the transport sector today is by his Excellency.
“Before now, after a trip, commercial bus drivers would have to take their vehicles to the mechanic before embarking on another journey. But today, vehicles can operate for weeks without requiring major repairs. The roads are now motorable and smooth.
He has restored decency on our roads, and that is why we have come to say thank you sir,” Okoronkwo stated.
Continuing, Hon. Okoronkwo applauded the governor’s achievements in the aviation sector, with the noticeable improvements at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport.
According to him, the installation of modern facilities has enabled night operations and positioned the airport to host international flights for the first time in the state’s history.
“Previously, aircraft could not operate at night because there were no adequate night landing facilities. Today, with modern installations, night landings and takeoffs are possible.
“It is no longer necessary to travel to Lagos or Abuja before boarding international flights. Residents can now fly directly from Imo State. Governor Uzodimma’s 3R administration made it possible,” he added.
Also speaking, the NURTW Chairman in the state, Comrade Jeff Eze, described the gathering as a genuine show of appreciation from transport workers across Imo.
“There is nothing hidden under the sun. You can see the organic crowd,; this is not a rented crowd. These are Imolites who have come out to say thank you to His Excellency for his achievements in the transport sector,” Eze said.
According to him, the improved road conditions have significantly reduced vehicle maintenance costs, increased ease of movement within the state and enhanced profit for transport operators.
“The rate of vehicle maintenance and visits to mechanics has reduced drastically. Some mechanic workshops are even experiencing low patronage because vehicles no longer break down as frequently.
“With good roads and improved connectivity, we can move within and outside the city in minutes. It reduces fuel consumption and allows us to earn more as workers,” he added.
Eze also referenced plans for the construction of a modern motor park, describing it as another milestone that would further enhance operations for transport workers in the state.
