Commuters are urgently appealing to authorities to address the deteriorating condition of the Asaba-Onitsha Expressway, which is causing significant hardship for motorists and residents alike.
During a visit to the collapsed section of the road, particularly between the Koka flyover and the Asaba-Onitsha tollgate, our correspondent observed severe damage that rendered the roadway nearly impassable.
Taxi driver Mr. Kingsley Uwa expressed frustration over the road’s state, urging both the federal and Delta State governments to act quickly to prevent further accidents. “It has been over four months of suffering without government attention,” he stated. “The heavy traffic forces everyone to trek or risk falling due to the poor conditions. We beg for help.”
Similarly, shuttle bus driver Mr. Charles Jibunor criticized Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for neglecting the vital roadway. “While we acknowledge it’s a federal road, it runs through Delta State. Most users are Deltans, and the lack of action shows a disregard for our suffering,” he said. Jibunor added that what should be a 20-minute journey often takes over two hours due to traffic congestion, with many facing frequent vehicle repairs.
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Rights activist Mr. Victor Ojei has taken action by petitioning the Federal Government regarding the state of the expressway. In an open letter addressed to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Ojei called for immediate intervention.
“The Young Nigerian Rights Organisation is deeply concerned about the condition of federal roads in Delta State,” Ojei wrote. He emphasized the need for FERMA to fulfill its responsibility to ensure safe roads, pointing out that many remain in disrepair despite allocated maintenance funds.
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He urged for a swift response to the persistent issues affecting the Asaba-Onitsha Expressway, highlighting the economic impact of the road’s condition on local businesses and commuters. “We demand accountability, and if action is not taken, we will pursue legal measures to ensure the safety of our citizens,” Ojei concluded.
The call for action underscores the urgent need for repairs to ensure safe and accessible transportation for all road users in the region.