Reps seek presidential intervention on reconstruction of Enugu airport

The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, solicited for the intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari in a bid to ensure immediate reconstruction of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu State slated for completion by December 2019, without further delay.

The lawmakers gave the charge after the adoption of a motion on ‘Matter of urgent public importance on the need to ensure speedy rehabilitation of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, sponsored by Deputy Minority Leader, Honourable Toby Okechukwu and 13 other lawmakers.

While giving an update on the airport’s scope of work, the lawmakers disclosed that an estimated sum of N8.5 billion would be required to complete the reconstruction of the airport.

The lawmakers, who frowned at the undue delay in flagging off the reconstruction of the airport, lamented on the impacts of the closure of the airport on businesses, investments and lives of travelling public including foreigners though the airport, amidst security challenges.

To this end, the House presided by the Speaker, Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila mandated the Committee on Aviation to interface with the Minister of Aviation to ensure immediate commencement of work.

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The House also called on Federal Ministry of Works and Housing at interim, expedite action on the repairs of major roads leading to the alternative routes and airports to alleviate the suffering of members of the public.

In his lead debate, Honourable Okechukwu lamented that: “six weeks after closure of the airport, no rehabilitation or reconstruction work has begun at the airport even as there are no indications that the contractor would mobilize to site anytime soon.

“The House is concerned that the major arterial routes leading to other alternate airports or leading to the South East have dilapidated and burdens the travelling public.

“We are asking for the Presidential intervention, it requires that red pen by Mr President. It requires his compassion it requires all he has, the feelings he has for the people, the peace of South East and the other people travelling from various parts of the world to Enugu.

“Knowing that the Christmas is a festive season, we are asking the President to please take appropriate action. The same measure that was taken at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja should be taken in Enugu. We believe that it is only that treatment that can ensure the travelling public will enjoy their Christmas.

“We know the exposures that are available to the people who come by road, the challenges of abstract roads, bad roads and more importantly incidence of insecurity,” he urged.