Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Abia State Government has approved the mandatory wearing of traditional outfits by members of the State Executive Council every first Monday of the month.
Similarly, all civil servants in the state are now required to wear traditional attire every Friday.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Tuesday during a press briefing in Umuahia on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting. He explained that the decision was aimed at promoting locally-made traditional outfits and showcasing indigenous craftsmanship in Abia.
Kanu added that the initiative was also designed to bridge cultural gaps while fostering pride in Igbo identity.
“We are aware that there is an ongoing cultural revolution in the state. Wearing our locally-made fabrics is one way of strengthening this cultural rebirth,” he said.
On the reported water contamination at Ohanso in Ukwa East Local Government Area caused by crude oil deposits, the Commissioner said the State Government had set up an emergency management team to provide potable water for affected residents.
The team, led by the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Professor Joel Ogbonna, was tasked with finding a quick solution to the hydrocarbon contamination.
Kanu also revealed that the Ministry of Health had been directed to investigate the potential health risks posed by the consumption of contaminated water over the years.
He expressed concern about the dangers of ingesting hydrocarbons but assured that the government was committed to protecting the people.
“This remedial and immediate action underscores the compassionate governance style of the present administration, which is determined to provide prompt solutions to communities under threat,” Kanu added.
Speaking further, Prof. Ogbonna said the intervention followed reports that a man who drilled a borehole in the area discovered a substance suspected to be crude oil, which was found to have contaminated the community’s water supply.
He explained that subsequent investigations confirmed the contamination, prompting the state to set up a committee for a detailed inquiry.
On infrastructure, Kanu disclosed that earthworks had commenced at the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) following the completion of compensation payments to all those enumerated.
He further stated that HSI Energies, the company behind the Modular Refinery project at the Park, had obtained all necessary approvals from oil industry regulators.
The Commissioner also revealed that 55 road projects—covering construction, reconstruction, and maintenance—were ongoing under direct labour.
Also present at the briefing were the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma.
