In fulfillment of his promise of constructing a modern open market shops for the women of Amaokwelu- Amankalu in Bende local government area of Abia State, deputy chairman of the local government, Hon Promise Uzoma Okoro has commenced work at the site.
With a promise of completing the project before the end of November, the council deputy chairman said the project is personally financed by him from his salary since his emergence as local government deputy chairman.
In a statement obtained by ABN TV on Friday, Hon. Okoro said he was touched when few weeks after his inauguration the women of the community paid him a congratulatory visit with a demand that he remembers them, particularly with regards to the reconstruction of the dilapidated market in the community.
He said, “The Leader of that Delegation and President of the women in my Community Lady Ngozi Elekwa said they came to beg me to remember Amaokwelu, specifically for me to remember the women of my community, saying that Government presence has not been felt for sometime.
“She told me that our current evening Market is owned by the women, years back, they had tried to erect one side of the market , but has faced challenge of erecting the second one because of financial constraints, she pleaded that I assist them to see that dream turn to a reality.
“In my response, I promised to see what can be done about the market and assured them of my continuous support to the Women of Amaokwelu- Amankalu and Alayi in General because there is a popular igbo adage (Ana esi na ulo amara mma pua na ama!) Charity begins at home.”
According to the council boss, the contractor handling the project has been mobilized with about 90 percent of the project fund.
He added, “To the Glory of God, yesterday ,I released over 90 percent of the Total Contract sum to the Contractor which the women brought to handle the project.
“This morning, the dilapidated market has been brought down as I gave order for this project to be completed before end of November.
“This Project is being funded 100% by me, from my basic Salary received since January as Deputy Chairman of Bende.
“I am in Power to serve my people”