...Warns that road's deplorable state is affecting Education in Delta
A lecturer at Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, has called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to urgently take over the reconstruction of the deteriorating Sapele-Eku-Abraka-Obiaruku-Abavo-Agbor road.
The 70-kilometer stretch, which serves as a vital link across several local government areas, has been in a dire state, significantly affecting daily commuters, farmers, and the broader economy.
Dr. Bebenimibo, also a human rights activist and former board member of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), expressed his concerns in an open letter. He implored the governor to address the hardship faced by road users, highlighting the neglect by the Federal Government over the years.
"The road is virtually impassable," Dr. Bebenimibo wrote. "Despite being a Federal road, its condition severely impacts Delta State, cutting across eight local government areas, including your own, Okpe. The road's disrepair is a major factor driving up the cost of agricultural products and transportation, and it contributes to the prevailing insecurity in the region."
He further noted the road's critical role in education, stating, "The current state of the road is killing education in Delta State. Both Delta State University, Abraka, and the University of Agbor are situated along this route. Staff and students are finding it increasingly difficult to commute."
Addressing Governor Oborevwori directly, Dr. Bebenimibo argued that the fact that the road is federally owned should not be a deterrent to action. He pointed out that similar interventions have been made by other governors, such as Ogun State's Prince Dapo Abiodun, who recently took over the reconstruction of the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway.
Dr. Bebenimibo urged Governor Oborevwori to seek President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's approval to commence reconstruction, drawing inspiration from the actions of former Rivers State Governor and current FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, who successfully constructed multiple flyovers on federal roads in his state.
"Governor, you have demonstrated 'street credibility' and a commitment to the people during your 2023 campaign. Now is the time to show it in action by addressing this critical infrastructure issue," Dr. Bebenimibo concluded. "May God guide you as you lead Delta State forward."
