Youths from the communities of Ukala, Okwute, Ezi, Ebu, and Ukala Okpunor in Oshimili North and Aniocha North Local Government Areas of Delta State have issued a 30-day ultimatum to the state government, demanding immediate commencement of construction on the long-neglected Ukala-Okwute-Ezi-Ebu-Ukala Okpunor road.
The youths, under the umbrella of Concerned Youths for Good Governance, staged a peaceful protest on Monday at the Interbau Roundabout in Asaba, expressing anger over what they described as years of government neglect that has subjected their communities to severe hardship.
In a statement delivered to the Chief of Staff, Government House, Honourable Prince Johnson Erijo, the protest leader, Comrade Henry Imuma said the road is a critical lifeline connecting multiple communities to key infrastructure such as markets, schools, and health centres.
“For years, the people of Ukala-Okwute, Ezi, Ebu, and Ukala Okpunor have suffered the consequences of the total abandonment of this essential road,” Imuma said. “Its deplorable state has crippled economic activities, especially for our farmers who face great difficulty in transporting their goods, leading to wastage and income loss.”
He further noted that the road’s poor condition has led to an increase in accidents and insecurity, isolating the affected communities and hampering access to basic services.
The youths demanded that the government:
Immediately mobilize contractors to resume work on the road; provide a clear and public project timeline; offer periodic updates to the communities and ensure that construction meets standard specifications for long-term durability.
They also called for the release of an official statement on the matter and requested a leadership meeting within seven days to discuss the way forward.
“Our protest is peaceful and constructive,” Imuma emphasized. “We are not opposing the government, but we will no longer remain silent while our people continue to suffer due to government inaction.”
In response, Chief of Staff Honourable Johnson Erijo commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct and meaningful engagement, assuring them that the Oborevwori-led administration is committed to equitable development across all parts of Delta State.
“No part of the state will be left behind in infrastructure development,” Erijo said. “Your concerns have been noted and will be forwarded to the Governor. I urge you to remain patient and law-abiding, especially as the rainy season is not ideal for major construction work.”
Also addressing the youths, Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Honourable Innocent Esewezie, who had earlier appealed for the protest to be shelved, praised the demonstrators for their maturity and peaceful disposition.
He reaffirmed that the road would receive attention, promising continued dialogue between the local authorities and the state government to ensure urgent action.
