EDITORIAL: Dismal State of roads in Udu, Ughelli, Okpe Exposes Governance Failure in Delta State
By Ezekiel Kagbala
In the heart of Delta State, with particular focus on Udu Local Government Area and its neighbouring LGAs notably Ughelli South and North, Uvwie, Bomadi and Okpe, a silent crisis of infrastructure decadence is unfolding with the state of the intra community roads in the Council Areas, which has already reached a critical point.
Deplorable Road in Effurun, Uvwie LGA Delta State
Most of the roads, once vital arteries of commerce and connectivity, have become treacherous paths riddled with potholes and craters.
The situation is exacerbated by the fact that road users are now left to bear the brunt of this neglect, as they suffer damages to their vehicles just as they endure longer travel times. The frustration is palpable, and the question on everyone’s lip is: why must we wait for roads to become unusable before action is taken?
Observers are of the view that this negligence on the part of the concerned Local Government Councils not only hampers economic growth but also endangers lives of the countless citizens who rely on these roads on daily basis.
Deplorable Road in UDU LGA Delta State
Yet, authorities of the affected Local Governments appear to be in a state of inertia, only waiting for the inevitable deterioration to occur before taking action. And it is quite disheartening to witness the seemingly indifference of the Local Government chairmen to the plight of their constituents.
The current approach of waiting for roads to deteriorate to the point of requiring multi-billion-naira contracts for repairs is not only economically unsound but it is also morally indefensible. It is a classic case of putting the cart before the horse.
Instead of proactive maintenance, we are subjected to a reactive system that prioritizes profit over the welfare of the people. This cycle of neglect and subsequent expensive repairs is a disservice to the citizens who deserve better treat.
It is surprising that despite their huge monthly statutory allocations, local government chairmen have not mobilized resources for basic road maintenance.
Needless repeating the obvious that simple measures, such as the use of hard stones and granite to fill potholes, could significantly alleviate the suffering of road users. Such initiatives would not only demonstrate a commitment to public service but also foster goodwill among constituents.
Deplorable Road in Ughelli South LGA Delta State
The absence of these basic maintenance efforts raises questions about the priorities of our local leaders and their level of commitment to the welfare of the people they are supposed to serve.
Moreover, the economic implications of poor road conditions cannot be overstated. Businesses suffer as transportation costs rise and delivery times lengthen. Farmers find it increasingly difficult to get their produce to market, leading to food wastage and loss of income. The ripple effects of this neglect extends beyond the immediate inconvenience; it stifles economic growth and development in the region.
Deplorable Road in Okpe LGA Delta State
Moreover, the absence of effective governance breeds a culture of apathy and disillusionment among the populace.
Despite the pressing need for infrastructure improvement, government officials seem to be ensconced in a bubble of indifference. Promises of road repairs and upgrades have become mere rhetorics, echoing hollowly in the ears of frustrated citizens.
Consequently, the lack of accountability and transparency in governance has fostered an environment where inaction is tolerated, and the needs of the populace are consistently overlooked.
It is high time for positive change. It is high time those mandated with Local Council governance realign their priorities with the pressing needs and well-being of the people rather than always striving at embarking on grandiose white elephant projects most of which, ironically, are primarily motivated by selfish economic gains. It is only thus our public office holders can proudly beat their chest and boast of genuinely serving the people and actualizing their mandates.
FocalPoint Reports
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by Ezekiel Kagbala
Editor in Chief
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