By Anayo Nwankwo
UMUAHIA — The Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has warned residents of Abia State and motorists plying the Aba–Azumini highway against burning tyres and engaging in activities that could damage the newly rehabilitated road.
The caution was issued during an inspection of the project by FERMA’s South-East 2 Zonal Director, Suleiman Mohammed Omonowo, who decried the practice often linked to celebrations as harmful to the durability of the fresh asphalt.
He noted that such actions could quickly deteriorate the road surface and undermine the gains achieved through the rehabilitation.
“Road users, particularly those in host communities, must take ownership of this infrastructure. Burning tyres or damaging the road under any guise is unacceptable,” Omonowo said.
He recalled that the highway was previously in a deplorable state, posing serious risks to commuters, but has now been restored to a safe and motorable condition following FERMA’s intervention.
Omonowo expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done, highlighting the inclusion of critical drainage systems, such as a catch pit, to prevent flooding and extend the road’s lifespan.
He also underscored the strategic significance of the road, which connects Aba to several communities in Abia State and stretches into Cross River State, serving as a major route for heavy traffic.
The zonal director further urged indigenous contractors to improve the quality of their work in order to compete favourably with foreign firms for major infrastructure projects.
In his remarks, the Federal Roads Maintenance Engineer in Abia State, Festus Okafor, praised host communities for their cooperation, noting that FERMA officials encountered no form of hostility throughout the project.
He attributed the peaceful atmosphere to the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Alex Otti, saying their efforts have helped maintain stability in the state.
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