Iri Ji Mbaise 2026: Amuchie Seeks Urgent Repairs on Okpala-Aboh Road Ahead of Global Cultural Festival
By Dike Godspower
The member representing Aboh Mbaise State Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Ugochukwu Amuchie, has called for immediate palliative repairs on the Okpala-Aboh Mbaise Road ahead of the 2026 Iri Ji Mbaise Cultural Festival.
Speaking during plenary, Amuchie moved a motion of urgent importance urging the Imo State Government to direct contractors handling the reconstruction of the road to urgently repair the worst-affected sections, especially the Orie Uvuru failed spot, to ease the suffering of commuters and ensure smooth movement before the international festival scheduled for August 15, 2026.
The lawmaker described the Okpala-Aboh Mbaise Road as a major economic corridor linking five local government areas, including Ngor Okpala, Aboh Mbaise, Ezinihitte Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise and Ehime Mbano. He noted that while the state government had already awarded the contract for the road’s comprehensive reconstruction, the ongoing rainy season has worsened conditions on some stretches, making travel increasingly difficult.
Amuchie commended the Governor of Imo State for approving the reconstruction project, noting that work is progressing from the Aba Branch axis towards Ahiara Junction. However, he expressed concern that construction on the section between Aboh/Ahiara Junction and Okpala has yet to commence, leaving residents and road users to contend with deteriorating conditions.
According to him, “the urgency of the intervention is heightened by the approaching Iri Ji Mbaise Cultural Festival, one of the largest cultural events in the South-East, which attracts thousands of visitors, tourists and members of the Mbaise diaspora from across Nigeria and abroad”.Hon Amuchie observed that some of the most severely damaged portions of the road are located close to the festival venue, warning that poor road conditions could create avoidable challenges for visitors and project an unfavourable image of the state during the global event.
He appealed for immediate palliative works pending the commencement of full reconstruction on the remaining section, stressing that temporary repairs would significantly improve accessibility and ensure a seamless experience for guests attending the festival.
The lawmaker also expressed confidence that the state government would respond positively to the appeal, citing the Governor’s record of implementing resolutions passed by the House of Assembly.With preparations for the 2026 Iri Ji Mbaise Festival gathering momentum, residents and stakeholders are hopeful that the requested intervention will be carried out in time to facilitate safe and convenient travel for participants expected from different parts of Nigeria and the international community.
