By Chinwe Nwacha, Onitsha
The Hon. Member representing Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Emeka Godwin Idu, has launched an initiative tagged, “Operation Light Up the Streets,” aimed at installing solar-powered street lights across communities within his constituency.
According to Idu, the project was prompted by numerous appeals, calls, and messages from constituents particularly street traders and community leaders requesting the installation of street lights to enhance security and extend business hours.
Some of the residents who spoke to our correspondent said that due to poor lighting and frequent power outages, they previously had to shut their shops as early as 8:00 p.m.
A hairdresser along one of the newly lit streets shared her experience, stating that she often had to rely on her phone’s flashlight to work at night.
“Since the installation of the solar light in front of my shop, I can now work into the night comfortably and serve my customers better,” she said.
Residents also noted the security benefits of the project, pointing out that many streets abinitio plagued by darkness and who were vulnerable to criminal activity now feel much safer.
Also evening fruit sellers expressed particular excitement, saying the lights have significantly increased foot traffic and boosted their sales, as customers now feel more comfortable patronizing them.
Reaffirming his commitment to a people-centered leadership, Hon. Idu assured that more streets across the constituency will benefit from the ongoing streetlight installations and described the initiative as a vital step towards enhancing the daily lives of his constituents and delivering tangible dividends of democracy.
He called on residents to continue supporting him through prayers and active engagement, promising to keep prioritizing their welfare.
Among streets that so far have benefited from Onitsha South included, Damijah Street BH1,Bridge Head 2, Bridge Head 3, Ihiala Street, Fegge, Yahaya Street, Fegge, Bishop Shanahan Street, Fegge, Igbo Ukwu Town Hall, Fegge, Orlu Street, Fegge, Belonwu Street, Fegge, Patterson Street, Okwuenu Street, Aggrey road, and Louis Mbanefo to Zik’s Avenue Junction, including kobo bu ego road, Akpaka
Others at Odoakpu were, Omeagana Street, Umunna Street, Anionwu Street, Ifejirika Street, St. John Street, Okwei Street by Nottage, and Nnewi Street with more streets scheduled to receive installations in the near future.
Mr. Eugene Ejinaka Okeke from Fegge Ward II testified to Hon. Idu’s generosity, sharing how the legislator paid for eye treatment for his two children at the general hospital Onitsha and also installed streetlights within their ward.
He pledged his support and prayed for continued divine blessings on the Honourable Member.
Also Miss Blessing Ekwunife, a salon owner at Bishop Shanahan Street, expressed her excitement over the installation of a streetlight directly in front of her shop.
“I used to close early due to darkness and frequent power outages, but now, thanks to the new light, I can work longer hours and serve more customers,” she said joyfully.
Similarly, Mrs. Nwanneka Okeke, a petty trader who sells foodstuffs on Yahaya Street, offered heartfelt prayers for Hon. Idu.noting that the newly installed streetlight near her shop has helped her continue serving customers even during power outages.
“I pray that God blesses him abundantly, as he brought light to us, may God bring light to all his endeavours,” she said.