DELTA STATE The Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road, a vital federal route that connects key towns in Delta State, has become a source of immense frustration and danger for residents and commuters. Once a major transportation corridor, the road is now in a deplorable state, with large sections completely impassable, leaving it almost unusable for motorists. Years of neglect, worsened under the Buhari-led APC administration, have turned this once-bustling road into a “no-go” zone, characterized by frequent accidents, long delays, and increasing security threats, especially kidnappings.
The situation is dire, with many road users calling for urgent intervention from the federal government. In particular, the stretch from Abavo to Umutu has become nearly impassable, and the stretch from Abraka Junction to Eku is also in critical condition. These deteriorating road conditions have made travel along this important route hazardous for commuters, with frequent traffic jams and long delays caused by heavy-duty trucks and trailers stuck in potholes. The worsening situation has prompted a public outcry, with road users pleading for immediate reconstruction of the road to avoid further loss of life and economic disruption.
Road Users’ Call for Urgent Reconstruction
Commuters who rely on the Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road are raising their voices in unison, demanding urgent action from the federal government. The road is no longer safe to travel on. Every day, we risk our lives just trying to get from one town to another, said a frequent traveler on the route.
The potholes are so deep, and the road is so narrow in some areas that it’s only a matter of time before there is a major accident. Road users have also expressed frustration with the constant traffic jams caused by large trucks and lorries, many of which are stranded for days at the end.
Aside from the physical dangers, the road has become a hotspot for criminal activity, particularly kidnappings. Travelers are often ambushed and held for ransom by armed groups operating along the route. Passengers have been reported missing, and drivers are often too scared to travel at night. The constant threat of violence has turned what should be a straightforward journey into a dangerous and stressful experience.
For years, the Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road has been neglected by the federal government, despite its importance as a major transportation route linking several towns and communities in Delta State. Under the leadership of the Buhari-led APC administration, little to no attention has been paid to the road’s worsening condition. While some repairs have been carried out on select sections of the road, these efforts have been patchy and insufficient. In many areas, the road remains in a state of disrepair, and it is clear that the federal government has failed to prioritize its reconstruction.
The neglect of the road is a stark contrast to the federal government’s investments in infrastructure projects in other regions, further highlighting the disparity in the treatment of roads in Delta State and the South-South region. Delta State, one of Nigeria’s major oil-producing regions, has contributed significantly to the country’s economy, but its residents are being forced to endure poor infrastructure and unsafe conditions.
Security Concerns: Kidnappings and Violence on the Road
In addition to the physical dangers posed by the road’s condition, the Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe route has become a hotspot for criminal activities, particularly kidnappings. Travelers on this road face the constant threat of armed robbers and kidnappers, especially between the Eku and Abraka stretch, as well as along the Abavo-Agbor axis. These areas have become infamous for attacks on vehicles, with victims often held for ransom or subjected to violent assault.
Road users have described the situation as intolerable, with many now avoiding the road altogether, especially at night. It’s not just the bad roads that are the problem; it’s the constant fear of being attacked, said one local resident. People are scared to travel, and those who do take the risk are always on edge. The state of insecurity has made the road a virtual no-go area, further disrupting the movement of people and goods.
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Delta State Government Takes Action: A Call for Federal Support
In response to the federal government’s failure to address the crisis, the Delta State Government, led by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, has taken proactive measures to improve the region’s infrastructure. In October of last year, the state government commenced the rehabilitation of the Umutu-Abraka-Eku road, an alternative route designed to provide some relief for residents and commuters affected by the dilapidated Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road.
During a recent inspection of the rehabilitation project, Delta State Commissioner for Works and Rural Roads, Charles Aniagwu, reiterated the urgent need for federal intervention on the Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road.
Aniagwu expressed concern over the severe impact the dilapidated road has had on local economies, hindering the movement of people and goods across the state. He called on the federal government to prioritize the reconstruction of the road to ensure safe and efficient travel.
The Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road is a lifeline for the people of Delta State, and its continued neglect by the federal government has put lives at risk, said Aniagwu. We are calling on the federal government to expedite the reconstruction process so that we can restore normalcy to this vital transportation corridor.
Delta State’s Efforts to Improve Infrastructure
Despite the lack of federal support, Delta State has continued to push forward with its own infrastructure development plans. The state’s ongoing rehabilitation of the Umutu-Eku road is expected to offer a much-needed alternative for travelers, especially given the growing security concerns along the federal road. The project involves repairing damaged sections of the road and expanding the route to reduce congestion and improve safety.
In addition to the Umutu-Eku road rehabilitation, Delta State has also initiated the dualization of Esezi Road at Orerokpe, another important route in the state. These projects have received praise from local leaders, including the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council of Delta State, who commended the governor for his commitment to improving road networks and enhancing mobility for residents.
A Call for Federal Government Action
While Delta State’s efforts to improve its road infrastructure are commendable, they cannot fully replace the need for federal intervention on the Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road. This road is a major federal route that requires urgent and sustained attention. Road users, local residents, and the Delta State government are united in their plea for the federal government to prioritize the reconstruction of this critical road.
Improved road infrastructure, combined with enhanced security measures, will not only make travel safer but will also stimulate economic activity, reduce crime, and improve the quality of life for all Delta residents. The time for action is now. The federal government must heed the urgent call for the reconstruction of the Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road, ensuring that the road is safe, passable, and secure for all travelers. For the sake of the people of Delta State and Nigeria as a whole the Agbor-Abraka-Amukpe road must no longer be allowed to deteriorate further.
