By Kelvin Obambon
A sociopolitical group, the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF), has expressed frustration over the continued failure of the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi, to address pertinent issues hampering construction work on the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway.
Reiterating call for urgent commencement of work on the road, Chairman of the Forum, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, at a press conference in Calabar Friday, decried the appalling state of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway, which according to him, has remained a source of untold hardship to the people of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.
Prof. Eyo regretted that despite numerous promises and assurances from the Federal Government, particularly the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, the critical road remains in a deplorable state, posing grave dangers to motorists, commuters, and businesses. He lamented that the road which is a major gateway linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom states to the rest of the country, has degenerated into a death trap riddled with deep potholes, eroded sections, and collapsed portions that make movement a nightmare.
“The rainy season has only worsened the situation, with long stretches of the road becoming completely impassable. Commuters are forced to spend hours on a journey that should take minutes, while transporters struggle with frequent vehicle breakdowns, increased operational costs, and loss of revenue. Accidents, injuries, and deaths have become a common occurrence on this road, yet the Federal Government and contractors handling the project continue to show a lack of urgency in addressing the crisis.
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“The suffering inflicted on the people of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states due to the state of this road cannot be overstated. Businesses are collapsing, farmers are unable to transport their produce, and essential services are being disrupted. The economic consequences are severe, with rising costs of goods and services as a direct result of the transportation nightmare.
“Beyond the economic toll, the human cost is even more devastating. Pregnant women, the sick, and accident victims endure horrific experiences while attempting to access medical care. The security risk posed by the road’s terrible state has also escalated, as criminals take advantage of stranded motorists to perpetrate robberies and kidnappings,” he said.
The Forum, however, demanded that “Urgent and full-scale rehabilitation of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway — the Federal Government must prioritize this road and take immediate steps to ensure it completion.
“Honouring the promise of the tripartite committee – Engr Dave Umahi must fulfil his commitment to constituting the committee, allowing stakeholders to track progress and ensure accountability.
“Accountability for contractors — Julius Berger and Sermatech must provide clear explanations for the delays and take urgent steps to accelerate the project.
“A clear and transparent timeline – the Federal Government and the Ministry of Works must present a realistic timeline for the road’s completion and adhere to it.
“Termination and/or revocation of the contract with Juiius Berger and re-award of same to a company willing to continue construction.”
The Chairman was accompanied by members of the Forum, including Sir Maurice Effiwatt, Hon. (Mrs) Abigail Duke, Hon. Ani Esin, Barr. Bassey Mensah, Prince Edwin Okon, Ntufam Okon Owuna, among others.
