By Cletus Asuquo
The Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has strongly criticised the Federal Government for its continued neglect of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Highway.
The highway, a crucial link between Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and other states, has been in a deplorable state for years, inflicting severe hardship on motorists, commuters, and businesses.
Addressing journalists in Calabar on Friday, the Chairman of the CRSCF, Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo Esq., expressed deep disappointment and frustration over the Federal Governmentโs failure to address the lingering issue.
The forum accused the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, PhD, of insincerity, alleging that despite numerous promises and assurances, no tangible progress had been made.
Furthermore, the CRSCF called for the immediate revocation of the contract awarded to Sermatech, the construction company handling the project, citing its slow pace of work and substandard performance.
A Highway in Ruins
โThe Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) is once again compelled to draw attention to the appalling condition of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway, which has become a source of untold hardship for the people of Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.
โDespite repeated assurances from the Federal Government, particularly from the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, this critical road remains in a deplorable state, posing grave risks to motorists, commuters, and businesses alike.
โThe highway, a major gateway linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom states to the rest of the country, has deteriorated into a death trap.
โDeep potholes, eroded sections, and collapsed portions have rendered it virtually impassable, with the rainy season exacerbating the situation.
โJourneys that should take minutes now last hours. Transporters grapple with frequent vehicle breakdowns, escalating operational costs, and dwindling revenues. Accidents, injuries, and fatalities have become disturbingly routine, yet the Federal Government and the contractors remain indifferent to the crisis.
โThe suffering inflicted on the people of Cross River and Akwa Ibom by the state of this road is immeasurable. Businesses are failing, farmers are unable to transport their produce, and essential services are being disrupted.
โThe economic toll is severeโrising transportation costs have triggered increases in the prices of goods and services. Beyond this, the human cost is even more devastating. Pregnant women, the sick, and accident victims endure unimaginable suffering while struggling to access medical care.
โThe security risks posed by the roadโs dismal condition have also escalated, with criminals exploiting the plight of stranded motorists to perpetrate robberies and kidnappings.โ
Broken Promises and Ministerial Indifference
The forum further recalled its previous engagement with the Minister of Works, noting that its members had visited his office in December 2023.
During the visit, the Minister commended the forum for its proactive stance in advocating for the rehabilitation of the highway, describing its efforts as an example of patriotism. He subsequently promised to establish a tripartite committee, comprising representatives from the forum, the Ministry of Works, and Sermatech, to monitor progress on the project and report directly to him.
โThis assurance was warmly received, as we believed it was a step towards ensuring transparency and accountability,โ the forum stated.
However, months after this promise, nothing has been done. The Minister has failed to honour his commitment, raising serious concerns about the sincerity of the Federal Government in addressing the issue.
โYou can then imagine our utter consternation when, during his 2024 visit to Calabar for the town hall meeting to flag off the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Engr. Umahi brazenly accused the forum of being sponsored to tarnish the reputation of Sermatech.
โThis is a truly baffling accusation. How can one damage what never existed?โ the forum queried.
Demands for Immediate Action
The CRSCF has demanded that the Federal Government take immediate and decisive action to rehabilitate the highway. It also urged the government to:
Establish a tripartite committee to oversee the projectโs progress.
Provide a clear timeline for its completion.
Ensure adequate funding is allocated to expedite the rehabilitation process.
The forum, however, commended Governor Bassey Otu for his role in settling compensation payments and securing permits for bridge construction along the route. His actions, they noted, demonstrated genuine commitment to the welfare of Cross Riverians.
Reaffirming its stance, the CRSCF vowed to continue advocating for immediate intervention, stating that the people of Cross River and Akwa Ibom have suffered enough and will not relent until the road is fully rehabilitated.
