Imo State Governor, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha CON, has ordered the immediate reopening of Douglas Road, Owerri, closed by the last administration headed by Rochas Okorocha.

Governor Ihedioha, who gave the directive during a working visit to the area to commemorate World Environment Day expressed concern over the hardship faced by motorists as a result of the continued closure of the road, reiterating his commitment to making life more meaningful for the people of the State.

Speaking on the controversy over the relocation of Ekeukwu Owerri market, Governor Ihedioha assured the jubilant traders that the matter will be revisited, informing of his plans to begin consultations with the traditional owners of the market and the leadership of Owerri, before a decision is taken on the matter.

“I have come to confirm reports about the state of things on Douglas road, Owerri. This road was closed by the last administration for about two years and our findings show that the closure has made movement very difficult, with road users facing untold hardship. I hereby order that the Douglas Road be opened for the use of Imo people.”

“On the Ekeukwu Owerri and New Market relocation issues, be rest assured that we are going to review the situation. We have decided to revisit it and after consultation with relevant stakeholders, particularly, the Owerri people, we shall take a decision that will be in the overall interest of Imo State.”

The Ekeukwu Owerri visit was part of the activities marking the 2019 World Environment Day celebration in the state.

Governor Ihedioha had, in company of the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Gerald Irona, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Uche Onyeagucha, Deputy Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chika Madumere, Permanent Secretaries and other top government functionaries earlier visited Relief Market where he frowned at the poor sanitation of the market, while also inspecting the ongoing evacuation of the of refuse within the area.

He also took a facility tour of the Zoo at Nekede, announcing plans by his administration to improve facilities there , with a view to improving its standards and enhancing its tourism potentials.

Other highlights of the celebration were Paper presentation, visit to Erosion site on the Fourth Inland Road, Owerri, where he decried the poor standards of the Bridge, among others.

The Governor, who lamented the uncontrolled dredging activities in Owerri, ordered the immediate suspension of all dredging activities within the State capital.

The World Environment Day celebration is a global event that seeks to promote healthy environment across the globe.
This year’s celebration, with the theme “Air Pollution” commenced in the state with a symbolic Tree Planting exercise at the Government House, Owerri, by His Excellency, with support from the Deputy Governor.

Chibuike Onyeukwu
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

June 5, 2019.