ASABA/Nigeria: The Ndokwa Rights and Cultural Council (NRCC) has issued a fervent plea to the Delta State Government, Edo State Government, and the Federal Government to urgently address the deteriorating condition of the Agbor-Umutu-Obiaruku-Abraka-Eku Road.
The statement pointed out that the road is a critical channel and essential for socio-economic activities, but has been neglected for too long, resulting in significant hardship and economic loss for the communities it serves.
In a press statement released on Thursday, July 31, 2024, and signed by Mathew Ossai, National Coordinator of The Ndokwa Rights and Cultural Council (NRCC), the Council emphasized that despite the Delta State Government’s response to initial complaints by conducting palliative work on the Old Abraka-Eku Road, these efforts have proven insufficient.
“The fanfare surrounding the project has not translated into real relief for travellers, who continue to suffer from worsening road conditions,” the statement read.
“The current state of the road has exacerbated the challenges faced by commuters and residents, rather than alleviating them.”
The NRCC highlighted the severe economic impact of the road’s condition, pointing to the decline of one of the state’s largest agricultural produce markets in Abavo.
“Once a bustling hub of economic activity, the market is now virtually dead, directly impacting the livelihoods of numerous farmers and traders. The road’s condition has made it difficult for them to transport their goods, leading to reduced economic opportunities and increased poverty levels in the region.”
The statement also called out the Edo State Government, urging it to acknowledge the struggles of Edo communities along the route.
“The Edo State Government must also recognize the plight of numerous communities between Abavo and Umutu. These communities are in dire straits, struggling to access essential services and markets due to the road’s terrible state. The difficulty in travelling in and out of their communities has left them isolated, hindering their social and economic development.”
In addressing the federal government, the NRCC urged the reactivation and empowerment of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to start palliative work on the road, pending full reconstruction.
“The NRCC calls on the Federal Government to reactivate and empower FERMA to collaborate with state governments in restoring sections of this critical road. While awaiting the construction of a new road, immediate rehabilitation is necessary to mitigate the severe impact on economic activities and ensure safe passage for travellers.”
The Ukwuani Local Government Area, a part of the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, is notably affected, with the section from Umutu to Obiaruku severely damaged. Residents are forced to navigate unsafe roads at extra costs to reach Agbor, sometimes detouring through Asaba, the state capital. The same applies to the University town of Abraka, to Eku and the commercial cities of Warri and Sapele.
The NRCC also highlighted the security implications of the road’s condition. “Beyond economic losses, the current condition of the road has turned certain sections into hotspots for criminal activities, including kidnappings. The safety and security of citizens travelling along this route are at risk, necessitating urgent and decisive action from all levels of government.”
“The rehabilitation of this road is vital not only for the people living along the route but also for the broader economy of Nigeria,” the statement continued.
“Its rehabilitation will facilitate the movement of goods and services, boost local economies, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents in these areas, especially in Delta State. The neglect must end, and a comprehensive and sustainable solution must be implemented immediately.”
The NRCC concluded by urging the Delta State Government, Edo State Government, and the Federal Government to prioritize the rehabilitation of the Agbor-Umutu-Obiaruku-Abraka-Eku Road.
“This action is essential to revive economic activities, ensure public safety, and promote sustainable development in the affected areas.”
