Senator Stephen Odey has explained why he donated ₦10 million for the reconstruction of Orierie Bridge in Uchu-Yache, Yala local government area of Cross River State.
Odey gave the explanation while answering questions on the issue from LEADERSHIP in Calabar yesterday.
Odey, an education commissioner in the administration of Governor Bassey Otu, said the bridge would assist school children return to school after they had remained at home because the bridge collapsed.
“The bridge collapsed due to heavy rainfall and flooding, leaving residents and commuters in distress”.Odey stated.
The Orierie Bridge was a vital link between Uchu-Yache and surrounding communities, facilitating access to essential services like schools and markets.
“The collapsed bridge caused significant disruptions, affecting children, farmers, and families who rely on the bridge for daily activities.” He maintained.
Senator Odey’s timely intervention brought hope to the children who began to stay away from school as they found it difficult to find their way to school due to the broken bridge.
“As an indigene of the community, I was moved with compassion as I visited the village only to discover that our children had stopped going to school due to the collapsed bridge, I was left with no other option than to take immediate action”. Odey maintained.
He emphasised that his intervention is aimed at complementing the efforts of Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, which is already constructing the Yache-Alifokp Road and Akreha Bridge.
He said that the collapse of the bridge caused immense hardship to the community locals, adding that it was his responsibility as a representative of his community to ensure that they find a solution.
“I urge all sons and daughters of Uchu-Yache, both at home and in the diaspora, to join hands in ensuring the successful rebuilding of the collapsed bridge.” Odey stated.
The ex- National Assembly lawmaker turned education commissioner lauded Evangelist James Eblabor, for contributing an additional ₦500,000 to support the reconstruction effort.
Odey told our correspondent that the people of Uchu-Yache have also reaffirmed their support for Governor Otu’s government and its infrastructure initiatives.
He said that rehabilitation of the Orierie Bridge bring relief to the community and improve access to essential services.
