By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
7- OCT -2025

In a show of civic consciousness and community solidarity, members of the Oganiru Mba Owerri in collaboration with Ukwuratta Alliance Students, (host general students body), embarked on a sensitisation walk at Ukwu Urratta Road in Aladinma Ward 1, Owerri Municipal.

The sensitisation event was aimed at commending the ongoing infrastructural revolution across Imo State under the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma, while also drawing the attention of the government to the deplorable state of the Ukwu Urratta Road, which has become a pressing concern for residents, transporters, and business owners.

During the exercise, participants displayed placards and banners with messages of appreciation to the “Infrastructure Governor,” as Governor Uzodimma is fondly called, acknowledging his unprecedented achievements in road construction, flyover projects, and urban renewal across Owerri metropolis and beyond. The group however appealed for similar government intervention to extend to the Ukwu Urratta axis, which they described as a vital commercial and residential corridor.

Speaking to newsmen, Comrade Nwosu Chisom, Secretary of the Ukwu Urratta Alliance, emphasized that the sensitisation walk was not a protest but a civic-oriented call for attention. He noted that the community remains deeply supportive of the governor’s transformative agenda, but wishes to see the same developmental touch extended to Ukwu Urratta Road. According to him, the alliance will continue to engage peacefully with relevant authorities to ensure that the area receives the infrastructural facelift it deserves.

For Prince Alaribe, a prominent businessman and shop owner in Ukwu Urratta, the deteriorating state of the road has posed challenges to local commerce and customer accessibility. He expressed optimism that Governor Uzodimma’s administration, known for its pro-business policies, would soon address the issue. “The Governor has done so well for Owerri; we are confident that Ukwu Urratta won’t be left behind,” he stated.

Similarly, Chief Nnorom, popularly known as Mega, who is a long-time resident of Ukwu Urratta, described the area as a fast-growing residential hub that deserves urgent government intervention. He appreciated the governor’s leadership in transforming Imo’s urban infrastructure and urged the Ministry of Works to prioritise the reconstruction of the road to ease the suffering of residents.

Mr. Cletus Obi, a transporter and daily road user, narrated how the poor condition of the road has affected transportation and vehicle maintenance. He expressed gratitude to the Oganiru Mba Owerri movement for championing the cause of ordinary citizens and creating a peaceful avenue for community voices to be heard.

On his part, Mr. Godwin Nnaji, Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Ukwu Urratta, lauded the peaceful nature of the sensitisation exercise and assured residents that the security situation within the area remains stable. He thanked the youth for maintaining decorum throughout the walk and urged them to continue supporting the governor’s developmental vision.

The Ukwu Urratta Youth Leader, Mr. Nnamdi Christian Chibuzor, spoke passionately about youth inclusion in governance and development. He noted that the youths of Ukwu Urratta have great faith in Governor Uzodimma’s Renewed Hope Agenda and are ready to collaborate with relevant government agencies to ensure the success of any infrastructural initiative that benefits the people.

Adding his voice, Comrade Godwin Chinagorom Joseph, the O.M.O Chapter Coordinator for Aladinma Ward 1 and President of the Ukwu Urratta Alliance, emphasized that the sensitisation walk was both a show of loyalty and a plea for attention. He noted that the Oganiru Mba Owerri movement has consistently supported the governor’s administration, and would continue to partner with government agencies to promote peace, unity, and sustainable development in Owerri zone.

In his remarks, Hon. Prince Clement C. Eze, the O.M.O Coordinator of All Coordinators (C.O.C), commended the turnout and civic discipline exhibited during the exercise. He reiterated that O.M.O stands for progressive partnership with government, not opposition, and will always serve as a bridge between the government and the people.

Ambassador Harry Chinedu E., Aladinma Ward 1 Coordinator of O.M.O, described the event as a model of constructive civic engagement. He urged other communities to emulate Ukwu Urratta’s approach of peaceful advocacy and constructive dialogue, stressing that the Oganiru Mba Owerri movement would continue to promote Governor Uzodimma’s developmental ideals across Owerri Municipal and beyond.

The sensitization walk concluded with a collective resolution to remain supportive of the government while appealing for swift action to rehabilitate Ukwu Urratta Road — a gesture that, according to the participants, will further solidify Governor Uzodimma’s legacy as the true Infrastructure Governor of Imo State.