By Comr Amos Oge Kalu

In a heartwarming testament to the indomitable spirit of community resilience, the people of Okon Aku in Ohafia, Abia State, have embarked on an audacious journey to revamp a 7km road that has lain in ruin for over four decades.

The Elu, Amuke, Okon Aku to Erei road, a vital artery that connects several neighboring villages, has been a perennial thorn in the side of the community. The road’s deplorable state has not only hindered the transportation of agricultural produce from the highly industrious communities in Ohafia to urban markets but has also posed a significant security risk to the communities in the area.

For generations, the people of Okon Aku have lived with the harsh realities of a road that has been abandoned to the ravages of time. However, in a bold display of community spirit and self-help, the Okon Aku Development Union, led by the indefatigable Chief Okorie Kama, has taken unmatched steps to revamp the road.

While the community continues to solicit government intervention to rebuild the entire 25km road, which leads to the defunct Eastern Region Estate Investment (EREI) farm settlement, the current project focuses on the portion linking Amuke and Okon Aku.

As the people of Okon Aku work tirelessly to restore their community’s vitality, their efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of community-led initiatives. The revamped road will not only boost economic activities in the area but also provide a safer and more convenient route for travelers connecting to Uwanna, Afikpo, and other communities in Biase LGA, Cross River State.

This inspiring tale of community resilience and determination is a testament to the boundless potential that lies within every community. As the people of Okon Aku strive to reclaim their road and restore their community’s prosperity, their story serves as a beacon of hope for communities everywhere.

On his part whilst touring the work site, the Traditional Ruler of Okon Aku, HRH Eze Engr. Ndukwe Iko (Nnaka IV)
Lauded all the sons and daughters of the community resident in Nigeria and diaspora for their support/donations and the community development union for their resolve to tackle the dire infrastructural challenges Okon Aku is facing. The Eze (Nnaka IV) also reiterated his commitment to reach out to all individuals, groups, agencies and government at all levels to ensure the restoration of the glory days and return to expected development and progress of Okon-Aku Autonomous Community.

He therefore sued for love, unity and peaceful coexistence amongst the people, such that the community can work together to achieve their aim in all facet of developmental indices.
Okon Aku is also presently embarking on a water for life project that will guaranty a drinkable pipe borne water to every household amongst other selfhelp interventions in Education, health care, etcetera.