Residents and road users in parts of Abia State have appealed to the state government to urgently rehabilitate several deteriorating roads. The deplorable condition of these roads has continued to cause hardship, disrupt business activities, and impede transportation. The affected roads include Ndoki Road, Obuohia Road, Umuojima Road, and Ekeakpara Road, among others.
The Ndoki Road, stretching from Obehie Roundabout and connecting parts of Ukwa East Local Government Area, is one of the worst-affected roads. A commercial motorcyclist who plies the Ndoki Road decried the difficulties faced by commuters and motorists, saying the condition of the road had made transportation increasingly difficult. The motorcyclist appealed to the government to come and construct the road so that it would be motorable.
Another resident, Osondu Emelogu, who spoke on the condition of the road around Obehie Roundabout, said the deplorable state of the road had persisted for over three years, negatively affecting commercial activities in the area. Emelogu appealed to the government to come and do the road for them, as it had slowed down business activities and was giving them serious problems.
The Obuohia road in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area is another major road identified by residents as being completely neglected and almost impassable. According to residents, the road has remained in poor condition for years despite serving communities and providing access to the Ugwunagbo Local Government Headquarters. They expressed concern that a road leading to the headquarters of a local government area could be left in such a deplorable state.
Ogbonna Kanu, a resident, highlighted the condition of Umuojima Road in Osisioma Local Government Area, saying the road had become difficult for motorists and other road users to navigate. Kanu explained that the road connects Ukwachi and several other routes, including Ekeakpara, as well as areas leading to the residences of some prominent personalities in the state. He appealed to the government to intervene, stressing that the poor condition of the road had continued to restrict movement and cause hardship for residents.
The residents also identified Ekeakpara and other adjoining roads as requiring urgent government attention, warning that continued neglect of the infrastructure could further worsen economic and social activities in the affected communities. They called on the Abia State Government to prioritize the rehabilitation of the roads, noting that accessible road networks are essential for economic growth, business development, transportation, and the overall well-being of the people.
The residents' appeals come as the state government faces increasing pressure to address the infrastructural challenges facing the state. With the current state of the roads, residents are finding it difficult to go about their daily activities, and businesses are suffering as a result. The government has yet to respond to the residents' appeals, but it is hoped that urgent action will be taken to address the situation.
Key points
- Abia State residents are calling for urgent road rehabilitation.
- The deplorable condition of the roads is causing hardship and disrupting business activities.
- The government is yet to respond to the residents' appeals.
