Residents Stage Symbolic ‘Commissioning’ of Pothole-Ridden road in Abia
Business/Economy
Akwete, Abia – In a creative act of protest, residents of Akwete in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State on Monday symbolically “commissioned” the badly deteriorated Akwete section of the Obehie–Azumini Road, highlighting what they describe as long-standing government neglect of a vital federal highway linking Abia and Akwa Ibom states.
The event, organised by concerned residents, turned the road’s numerous potholes into the centre of attention. Organisers described it as a “symbolic commissioning of the potholes” aimed at drawing public and governmental focus to the urgent need for reconstruction.
Participants lamented that despite Akwete and surrounding communities in Ukwa East and Ukwa West producing several prominent political leaders over the years, the road has remained in a deplorable state for decades.
The highway, which serves as a key link between Abia State and neighbouring Akwa Ibom, has become notorious for its failed sections, deep craters, and safety hazards that endanger motorists, traders, and residents.
Background reports indicate the Obehie–Akwete–Azumini corridor has suffered from abandoned or poorly executed contracts, including projects awarded under the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and federal initiatives dating back to 2010.
While some sections have seen partial rehabilitation or commissioning in recent years, residents say the Akwete portion continues to suffer severe deterioration.
The protest comes amid broader efforts by Abia State Governor Alex Otti’s administration to address infrastructure gaps in Ukwa communities, including ongoing or completed works on related roads like Obehie-Oke-Ikpe and links toward Akwa Ibom.
However, organisers stressed that the specific Akwete stretch still requires urgent federal intervention as a major inter-state route.
Speaking during the symbolic event, organisers called on federal and state authorities to prioritise the full reconstruction of the road, emphasizing its economic importance for commerce, agriculture, and connectivity between the two states.
“No more excuses,” one resident reportedly said, pointing to the irony of commissioning potholes instead of a functional road.
The action is intended to pressure relevant agencies to remobilise contractors and allocate funds for lasting repairs using durable materials.
This creative protest reflects growing frustration in oil-bearing and border communities across the Niger Delta region, where infrastructure deficits persist despite resource contributions and repeated promises.
As of now, no immediate official response from federal authorities or the NDDC has been reported on the latest protest, but the event has begun circulating on social media, amplifying calls for action.
