…Demand urgent action from government.
By Polycarp Ifeanyi, Onitsha
The deplorable state of the 9th Mile-Makurdi-Oturkpo road has deteriorated to the point where it poses a significant danger to travellers, who now endure immense hardship before reaching their destinations.
It is truly disheartening to acknowledge that travellers using this road no longer arrive at their intended locations within the expected timeframe. Even those fortunate enough to avoid getting caught in heavy traffic jams often find themselves arriving at their destinations in the dead of night.
The 9th Mile-Makurdi-Oturkpo road, like other major highways across the country, was constructed by the Federal Government of Nigeria in the 1960s. However, it is perplexing to comprehend why this road has been neglected by successive ministries of works, allowing it to deteriorate beyond imagination.
The question that arises is whether the road was never awarded for construction, or if it was indeed awarded but the contractor abandoned the site.
The facts reveal that the road was indeed awarded, and construction work was underway as recently as last year. However, as soon as the campaign for the 2023 general election began, work abruptly ceased.
A road user, Chuka Urama attested that, “I am among those who frequently travel along this road. Construction was progressing up to Abor, Ukana, and a few kilometers before Awhum, but then it abruptly halted.
“Based on the progress made in the few kilometers that were already constructed, it is evident that the road was awarded for construction.
“However, the reasons behind the contractor’s decision to halt work remain unknown to us. I ply this road on a daily basis,” he said.
It is imperative that the cause of the construction stoppage be determined through dialogue between the contractor and the Ministry of Works. The government must take action to ensure that the contractor resumes work on this vital road.
There is no doubt that the 9th Mile-Makurdi-Oturkpo road is currently the fastest route to Nsukka, Benue, Kogi, and the rest of the Northern parts of Nigeria.
Another traveller, Innocent Okeke, said that the most concerning aspects of this situation is that those who choose to take the route through Uzouwani/Adani or Enugu city to reach Nsukka, Benue, Kogi state, or other Northern states are forced to pay exorbitant transport fares.
“They also face the constant threat of kidnapping and other criminal activities along these routes. So this is sad. It is just like we don’t have a government, he said.”
It is important to note that a majority of the residents of Udi Local Government and Igbo Etiti Local Government live along the 9th Mile-Makurdi-Oturkpo road.
Unfortunately, they have no alternative route to their villages due to the damaged condition of the old road. Put yourself in their shoes and imagine the difficulties they face.
As the world prepares for this year’s Christmas festival, many residents of these affected communities have made the difficult decision to stay in the city rather than risk their lives and hard-earned money by returning home, unless immediate action is taken to address the road conditions.
On his part, a resident of the area who did not want his name in print blamed the federal government for the current state of the road, adding that while other roads are prioritised, the road is left to rot.
“The other day, we read in the papers how the current Minister of Works Chief David Umahi, inspected ongoing Federal government road projects in the South East.
“We never mentioned that he came here and yes, he did not inspect this place. Maybe we are no longer in Nigeria. They should please do the right thing.
“It is truly unfortunate that most of our political appointees and elected leaders have turned a blind eye to the state of the road, allowing those who voted for them to suffer and even die in broad daylight.”
It is therefore urgent and imperative that those responsible consider the plight of the countless Nigerians who travel through this road and take immediate action to instruct the contractor to resume work in order to save lives and protect property.
It is crucial that the authorities prioritize the repair and maintenance of the 9th Mile-Nsukka old road. This will not only ensure the safety and well-being of the residents who rely on this route but also demonstrate a commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people.
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