“My Constituents Had No Light for 5 Years Yet Given Bill of N2.1bn” – Abia Rep Member Laments

In a press conference held in Umuahia, Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, the representative for Arochukwu/Ohafia federal constituency, decried the prolonged five-year power outage endured by his constituents in Ohafia. Despite having no electricity for this period, the community received an astonishing bill of N2.1 billion from the power distribution company.

Hon. Osonwa criticized the power company’s lack of empathy and highlighted the broader issues plaguing Nigeria’s power sector. He stressed that the high cost of production in Nigeria, which he attributed largely to power expenses, could be mitigated if the Federal Government took decisive action to stabilize the sector. He noted that resolving power issues could significantly boost economic activities across the country.

Addressing his achievements in the House of Representatives, Osonwa expressed optimism about his bill to upgrade Ohafia General Hospital to a Federal Medical Centre, emphasizing the need given the area’s large population and influx of patients from neighboring states.

The lawmaker was pleased to announce that six of his projects included in the 2024 budget had been awarded, though awaiting funding, while 15 others were still pending. He also revealed a proposed N2 billion for erosion control in the constituency, awaiting presidential approval.

On infrastructure, Osonwa lamented the poor condition of the Umuahia-Bende-Ohafia federal road and the erosion threat to the Nmori bridge, urging federal intervention. He reported that the contract for the Omenuko bridge construction had been awarded, with work expected to commence soon.

Osonwa reaffirmed his commitment to equitable distribution of constituency projects, ensuring that each community could choose their preferred projects during a town hall meeting in January.

The representative praised the unity among Abia’s National Assembly members, transcending party lines for the state’s betterment. He lauded Governor Alex Otti’s efforts to reposition Abia, pledging legislative support.

Regarding the national debate on the minimum wage, Osonwa supported a wage increase but considered the N497,000 demanded by labour unrealistic, proposing N100,000 instead. He also advocated for a more efficient form of democracy tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges.

On the creation of an additional state for the South East, Osonwa endorsed the idea but suggested adopting recommendations from the 2014 constitutional conference. Concerning the release of IPOB Leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, he reaffirmed the South East NASS caucus’s stance on his unconditional release and expressed hope for Kanu’s freedom and well-being soon.