By Douglas Princemola
The Imo State Council of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has announced plans to organize a solidarity road walk this Friday in recognition of Governor Hope Uzodinma’s road infrastructure projects across the state.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday at the union’s secretariat in Owerri, the State Council Chairman, Comrade Jeff Ikenga Eze, popularly known as Olomo Imo, said the event is intended to appreciate what he described as visible infrastructure development in the transport sector under the current administration.
According to Comrade Ikenga Eze, the governor’s investment in road construction and rehabilitation has improved transportation activities throughout Imo State. He noted that better road networks have eased movement, supported commercial activities, reduced vehicle repair costs for operators, and contributed to improved earnings for members of the union.
He explained that the celebration is a gesture of appreciation for infrastructure projects that have directly affected transport workers and commuters. “When leadership delivers results that people can see and experience, it is important to acknowledge it,” he said.
The NURTW chairman also described the governor’s tenure, which coincides with the state’s 50th anniversary, as historic. He called on Ndi Imo, transport operators, and members of the public to join the union in recognizing what he termed practical and people-oriented leadership.
Giving details of the planned activities, Comrade Ikenga Eze said union members would embark on a peaceful road walk from their secretariat to Government House (Douglas House), Owerri. The walk, he added, is intended to show appreciation and offer prayers for continued progress in the state.
He further clarified that NURTW operates as an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and is not an arm of the Imo State Ministry of Transport, although it works alongside the ministry in regulating transport operations.
The union chairman stated that available records show that more than 316 road infrastructure projects have been completed across the state since Governor Uzodinma assumed office. He maintained that the improved road network has created a better environment for business activities and daily commuting.
Among those present at the briefing were the Honourable Commissioner for Transport, Chief Emeka Okoronkwo, represented by the Director of Planning and Finance, Mr. Ben Uwakwe; a former State Chairman of the union, Okebaram Bora; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Alvan Opara.
In his remarks, the Chief of Staff called on members of the media and the public to report any misconduct or extortion by individuals posing as union members. He assured that appropriate measures would be taken against anyone found engaging in illegal activities within the transport sector.
The solidarity walk is expected to attract transport operators from different parts of the state as the union prepares to publicly acknowledge the administration’s road infrastructure achievements.
