More than ten communities in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State have raised alarm over the terrible condition of roads in the area, calling on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to urgently intervene before the situation brings economic and social life to a halt.
Residents say the near-total absence of motorable roads has cut off inter-community movement, strangled trade and farming, and made emergency response almost impossible.
Among the worst-hit routes are:
- Ezi–Ogodo Road – described as impassable and long abandoned.
- Issele-Uku–Onicha-Ugbo–Idumuje Uboko/Idumuje-Unor axis – now completely dilapidated.
- Ugbodu–Idumuje-Unor Road – likened to a “war zone.”
- Issele-Azagba–Otulu Road – said to be in a terrible state and “difficult to explain.”
- Obomkpa–Ubulubu Road – considered nearly impossible to use.
- Obior–Ubulu-Uku Road – critically deteriorated.
- Issele-Uku–Onicha-Uku Road – described as “gone.”
- Issele-Uku–Idumuje-Unor Road – said to have collapsed.
- Onicha-Uku–Idumogo Road and Idumogo–Ukwu Nzu Road – both in urgent need of reconstruction.
Communities Plead for Action
Community leaders and residents told The Story newspaper that while road construction is ongoing in other parts of Delta State, Aniocha North has been largely abandoned, despite its rich agricultural base and cultural importance.
“Sir, please can you listen to our cry? Aniocha North LGA has no road. Connecting other communities is a big challenge. Help us out, amiable governor,” one community spokesperson pleaded.
Locals warned that the poor roads have not only slowed development but also worsened insecurity, as farmers and traders now find it risky to reach markets. They appealed to Governor Oborevwori to match his promises of inclusive governance with urgent road rehabilitation, saying such action would restore hope and boost economic growth.
Growing Frustration
Many residents expressed anger, claiming “there is no single good road in Aniocha North anymore.” The Issele-Uku–Onicha-Ugbo Road has become a major concern, with commuters describing it as impassable and a symbol of government neglect.
Some community voices openly questioned the commitment of elected leaders, asking why infrastructure in the area has remained stagnant despite repeated campaign promises and approved budgets. Others described the condition of roads as “a disgraceful failure of leadership.”
Government’s Response
Reacting to the complaints, the State Commissioner for Works (Riverine and Rural Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, reassured residents that the Oborevwori administration is committed to delivering projects across all three senatorial districts of Delta State.
Speaking at a press briefing, Aniagwu urged residents to remain patient, noting that not all road projects can be executed at the same time but are being handled in phases.
“Development is a continuous process, and we remain committed to building a Delta that works for all,” Aniagwu said.
