The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the implementation of the Oba-Nnewi-Uga-Akokwa-Arondizuogu-Okigwe road project, expressing concern over the limited construction activity along the corridor.
The Daily Echoes reports that HURIWA made the appeal following concerns that communities along the route have yet to witness substantial physical work despite the reported presidential approval of the project.
HURIWA said the reported approval of the 150-kilometre road had raised expectations among residents, businesses and road users who have endured the poor condition of the route for years. President Tinubu was reported to have approved the design, procurement and commencement of work on the Oba-Nnewi-Uga-Okigwe Junction Road as part of efforts to improve connectivity and economic activities in the South-East.
The rights group urged the Federal Government to move the project beyond approval and procurement to actual construction, saying affected communities need to see equipment, engineers and workers mobilised to the site.
HURIWA also called on the Federal Ministry of Works to provide clear information on the project’s procurement status, contractor selection, funding arrangements and expected mobilisation date.
The association recalled that the road has faced years of deterioration, with the poor condition affecting transportation, commercial activities and the movement of people and goods between communities in Anambra and Imo states. The Federal Ministry of Works’ technical records identify the Oba-Nnewi-Okigwe corridor as a federal road stretching across the two states.
HURIWA further urged lawmakers representing communities along the route to intensify legislative oversight and keep residents informed about developments concerning the project.
The group maintained that the effectiveness of the reported presidential approval would ultimately depend on visible implementation and completion of the long-awaited road project.
Leave a comment