Over the weekend, over 5,000 youths from Ohaji in Imo State organized a peaceful protest to draw attention to the poor state of the Umuapu road, criticizing both the federal and Imo state governments for their negligence.
The Youth President of Umuapu Community in Ohaji/Egbema LGA, Comr. Obinna Amadi, expressed deep frustration over the worsening condition of the main road connecting Umuapu to the rest of Imo State. According to him, residents face daily dangers due to the road’s dilapidation. Filled with potholes, eroded by rain, and nearly impassable, the road has become a death trap, posing serious risks to motorists, travelers, and locals alike. Beyond these risks, the road’s poor condition has severely impacted economic activities in the area, causing tragic accidents and costing lives.
Comr. Tochi Nwosu, the national president of Ohaji Youths, emphasized that Ohaji is not just another community in Imo State. it is a vital economic zone, contributing significantly to the state’s oil revenue. Rich in oil resources, Ohaji has made Imo State a critical player in Nigeria’s oil industry, putting the region on the global map. However, the persistent neglect of infrastructure, particularly the Umuapu road, has left many residents questioning whether the state values their community’s role in enriching Imo’s economy.
The youths highlighted several key roads requiring urgent attention, including the Owerri-Port Harcourt road linking Imo to Rivers State, the Avu/Adapalm road, and the Abi Umuapu/Obitti road. They revealed that all roads leading to the oil-producing areas of Ohaji/Egbema are in a state of disrepair.
Comr. Emmanuel Ugorji, president of the NDYM, stated that the Umuapu road is not just a local route but a critical artery for economic activities in the region. Given the area’s oil wealth and agricultural resources, it deserves better maintenance. Repairing this road would improve the transportation of goods and resources, bolstering the state’s economy and benefiting the lives of residents.
During the protest, the Chief Security Officer of Umuapu, along with the president generals of Umuapu and Ohaji communities, echoed the urgency of the matter. They urged the Imo State governor to act swiftly to address the appalling condition of the Umuapu road. They stressed that immediate intervention would not only show a commitment to the safety and welfare of Ohaji’s residents key stakeholders in the state’s oil wealth but also help prevent further tragedies and alleviate the hardships faced by the people.
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