The member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Rev. Francis Ejiroghene Waive, has installed solar-powered streetlights at Urhobo House, located in Uvwiamuge, Agbarho, Delta State.
Urhobo House, also known as the headquarters of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), serves as the central hub for Urhobo ethnic affairs in the Niger Delta region. For years, the premises and its surroundings had been plunged into darkness, posing a security risk until Hon. Waive, through a federal government agency, took the initiative to provide solar-powered lighting.
The absence of lighting in the area had led to an increase in criminal activity, with elements targeting commuters along the Agbarho/Ughelli axis of the East-West Road for attacks and kidnappings.
However, with the completion of the solar streetlight installation, the entire Urhobo House premises and the Uvwiamuge Agbarho Junction are now well-lit, transforming the area and providing a safer environment for residents and commuters.
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Rt Hon Revd Francis E Waive member representing Udu, Ughelli South, and Ughelli North federal constituency, installed solar-powered street lights around the headquarters premises of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Uvwiamuge Agbarho.[/caption]
Speaking on the project, Hon. Waive said the installation fulfils a campaign promise to the people of Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu, who re-elected him for a second term. He expressed his commitment to strengthening the Urhobo Nation and improving security around Urhobo House.
Waive also revealed plans to install solar-powered streetlights at the UPU Cultural Centre on Okere Road, Otovwodo, in Agbarha Warri.
He remarked that it would be shameful to allow two pillars of Urhobo culture and unity to remain in darkness, stating that this first installation is just the beginning of many improvements to come for his constituency.
“I am pleased to report that I have installed solar streetlights around the headquarters of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) at Uvwiamuge, Agbarho. This not only improves visibility but enhances security within the premises at night,” Waive stated.
Residents and commuters along the busy Effurun/Ughelli Expressway have expressed their gratitude to the lawmaker for illuminating this important symbol of Urhobo heritage. They noted that before the installation, motorists were often too afraid to stop at the Uvwiamuge/Urhobo House Junction to drop off or pick up passengers.
Members of the community also urged Urhobo leaders to further develop the area and complete the Urhobo House building, noting that it remains a vital institution for the Urhobo people worldwide.
