Residents of Cross River state have taken to social media to voice their concerns and frustration over the deplorable condition of key federal roads linking the state to its neighbors. The Calabar-Odukpani-Itu highway, a critical artery between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, and the Ugboro road in Bekwarra LGA, which connects the state to Northern Nigeria, have been highlighted as nearly impassable NEGROIDHAVEN has learnt.
A social media user identified as Tom Alims shared his harrowing experience navigating the roads recently, noting that if not for a pressing need, he would avoid traveling altogether. He posted in Pidgin, “If u wan use Calabar/Itu road travel today, stay for ur house… Road no dey.” He went on to lament how, two days earlier, he had embarked on a trip to Ogoja and was cautioned about the poor condition of the Ugboro-Abuochiche road in Bekwarra LGA.
“I couldn’t believe what my eyes saw,” Tom exclaimed. “The Federal Road (the gateway into Cross River State from the North) is no longer in use around Ugboro. Vehicles are now diverting from Ijibor to use the old road, some through Ukpah.”
Tom urged the state government, led by the Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, and other political figures, including Hon Peter Odey, Sen. Jarigbe Agom, and Hon. Peter Akpanke, to take swift remedial action. He suggested that a construction company be deployed to temporarily fix the worst sections of the road by grading and filling them with solid laterite and stones. “This is a quick fix approach, and I believe it’s something our political leaders can do for US, their people,” Tom pleaded.
In a similar vein, journalist Eyo Charles also shared his recent distressing experience on the Odukpani-Itu highway, where he was stuck in traffic for over six hours. “Instead of one hour journey, I’ve spent more than six hours, and still counting,” he lamented. “I’ve counted over 500 assorted trucks held up, seen three trucks fell across the road, and four others stuck. The road is impassable.”
According to Eyo, the deteriorating state of the highway has severely impacted the lives of commuters and the flow of goods between Cross River and Akwa Ibom. “This road is taking 100 years to complete,” he remarked, reflecting on the prolonged delay in the road’s reconstruction.
The deteriorating condition of these federal roads has become a significant issue for Cross River residents. The Ugboro-Abuochiche road, in particular, is vital as it serves as a gateway to Cross River from northern Nigeria. With the New Yam Festival approaching, residents warn that those traveling home should brace for a difficult journey.
While road repairs are typically within the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, residents are calling on the state government to intervene temporarily while awaiting action from the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
The pleas of these concerned citizens have resonated across social media platforms, as they hope for urgent attention from political leaders and relevant authorities to alleviate the suffering of travelers and restore vital infrastructure in the state.
