There has been widespread clamour, especially from the Okigwe South area of Imo State, for the development of the historic Abadaba Lake which has been overgrown by weeds for several years.
An investigation by our correspondent revealed that it was the administration of the Late Sage, Chief Sam Mbakwe, that saw the need for the development of the lake into a national tourism center.
The Imo State government then, did not only stop at identifying the economic potentials inherent in Abadaba Lake but went ahead to lay the foundation for some buildings that can assist in take-off of the tourism project.
Our findings reveal that one of the major contracts that stalled the project was the struggle for the ownership of the project site between Nkwumeato in Ihitte/Uboma and Umulogho in Obowo Local Government Areas leading to a situation where the Imo State government had to express some reservations on the project, culminating in the project’s abandonment by successive governments, military and civilian alike.
A tourism expert Mr. Chris Anyanwu, described the Abadaba Lake as “ a goldmine that has been abandoned by several administration in Imo State” adding that, if fully developed it will be capable of generating at least N1,000,000,000 (1 billion Naira) annually to enhance revenue generation.
He further noted that based on the human face of the present government, the re-elected Gov. Hope Uzodimma should ensure that the project is revisited because of its economic potential.

An indigene of the area, Mr. Kesaandu Kenkwo, who spoke to our correspondent via telephone conversation lamented that the project has been abandoned for over 35 years leading to a situation where the lake including the structures at the site have been overgrown by weeds.
He pleaded for intervention by the Imo State government.
“ Abadaba lake is bigger than Oguta lake. 85% of the structures constructed under Dee Sam Mbakwe’s administration are still alive, the 800 capacity halls. The lake will create jobs and generate revenue for our state. I appeal to government to strongly consider reviving it.