By Victor Itodo Abuh
THE DILAPIDATED condition of the Oju-Obi-Otukpo federal road has become a symbol of neglect and infrastructural decay, according to Dr. John Ogi, a social media activist the area.
In a Facebook post, Dr. Ogi highlighted the very poor condition of the federal road, said to be once vital transportation highway connecting the Igede people in Oju and Obi local government areas to Otukpo, the rest of Benue State, Abuja, and other parts of the country.
Describing the road as “virtually impassable,” Ogi emphasised how its current state has effectively isolated the Igede communities, disrupting economic activities and restricting access to essential services.
“The road’s deplorable condition not only hinders economic activities and access to essential services but also poses significant safety risks to commuters,” he stated.
The worsening condition of the road, which is crucial for transportation within the region, has raised concerns about governance in Benue State, Ogi argues, noting that the failure to rehabilitate the road reflects systemic issues in the leadership’s approach to infrastructure development.
He stressed that the government’s inaction demonstrates a lack of commitment to the welfare of the people and the development of their communities.
“The continued degradation of the Oju-Obi-Otukpo road not only isolates the Igede people but also symbolizes a broader collapse in governance at all levels,” Ogi remarked, adding that commuters are left to “endure daily hardships” imposed by the deteriorating infrastructure.
During his visit to the site with the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Ogi conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the road’s condition.
He called for urgent action to rehabilitate the road, urging authorities to prioritise public welfare and invest in sustainable infrastructure to prevent further decay.
The Oju-Obi-Otukpo road is a crucial transportation artery in Benue State, and its restoration is vital to reconnecting the region and alleviating the economic and social challenges faced by its residents.
Ogi’s post brings to public attention the pressing need for infrastructure improvements across Benue State and perhaps the entire country.
