Achalla–Ibusa Communities Protest at Delta Government House Over Abandoned Road Project
Residents of Achalla and Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the Government House in Asaba, calling on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to urgently intervene in the alleged abandonment and poor execution of the Achalla–Ibusa road project.
The protesters, made up of youths, women, elders, and community leaders, expressed frustration over the deteriorating state of the road, which they described as a critical link between Achalla, Ibusa, Asaba, and surrounding communities.
The demonstration was led by the Secretary General of the Ibusa Youth Council, Comrade Vincent Ollimah; Anyalobum Youth President, Comrade Steve Mamoh; President General of Achalla Ibusa, Comrade Lawrence Nwanze; and Community Secretary, Comrade Emeka Okolo.
Carrying placards with various inscriptions, the protesters appealed to the state government to address what they described as years of neglect and hardship caused by the failed road project.
Community leaders alleged that available information indicated the contract for the Achalla–Ibusa road may have been designed to terminate several kilometres before reaching Ibusa town, a development they described as unacceptable and unjust.
They questioned why such a strategic road would allegedly stop short of Ibusa despite its location within the Delta State capital territory.
“Why should the road stop after Asaba without reaching Ibusa? Are we not part of the capital territory?” one of the protesters asked.
According to them, the road is economically important to both communities, lamenting that its poor condition has turned daily movement into a difficult and time-consuming experience. They explained that journeys that should take minutes now extend to hours due to poor accessibility.
The leaders further alleged that the project, earlier awarded to a contractor identified as “Ebube Dan,” had been abandoned, leaving residents in prolonged hardship.
While acknowledging ongoing infrastructure efforts by the Oborevwori administration, they urged the governor to extend similar attention to Achalla and Ibusa communities.
They also noted that the situation has worsened during the rainy season, making travel more difficult and raising safety concerns, particularly during emergencies.
Despite their grievances, the protesters reaffirmed their support for Governor Oborevwori, stating their belief in his commitment to inclusive development.
Responding on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct.
He assured them that the governor was aware of their concerns and remains committed to fairness and transparency in project execution across the state.
Aniagwu added that the government would carefully review the issues raised, noting that road construction during the rainy season requires proper technical planning to ensure durability and quality.
He further assured that the administration does not abandon awarded projects and promised that the concerns would receive prompt attention.
The protest ended peacefully with a vote of thanks delivered by the President General of Achalla Ibusa, Comrade Lawrence Nwanze, who appealed for swift government intervention.
“We are in serious pain. Our people have suffered for years because of this road. We are appealing to the governor to come to our rescue and ensure its completion,” he said.
