The Cross River South Consultative Forum has once again called on the Federal Government to urgently address the deplorable state of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway, which has become a nightmare for motorists and commuters.
Despite repeated promises from the government, particularly from the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, the vital road linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom states remains in a state of total disrepair. Addressing a press conference in Calabar, the group’s chairman, Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, described the road as a national embarrassment, warning that its worsening condition poses grave risks to lives, businesses, and the regional economy.
The highway, a crucial gateway connecting the South-South to other parts of the country, has deteriorated into a death trap, riddled with deep potholes, eroded sections, and collapsed portions that have made travel nearly impossible. Commuters now spend hours navigating routes that should take only minutes, while transporters struggle with frequent vehicle breakdowns, skyrocketing maintenance costs, and severe revenue losses.
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Hon. Ekpo lamented the alarming increase in accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road, blaming government inaction and the lack of urgency from contractors. He stressed that businesses are shutting down, farmers are unable to transport their produce, and the cost of goods and services is rising due to the transportation crisis. Essential services, including medical emergencies, are also being severely impacted. Pregnant women, accident victims, and critically ill patients endure horrific delays while trying to reach healthcare facilities.
Beyond economic hardship, the deteriorating road has become a haven for criminals, who take advantage of stranded motorists to commit robberies and kidnappings. Security concerns are escalating as residents live in constant fear of attacks.
The group demanded immediate intervention, urging the Federal Government to compel contractors, including Julius Berger and Sermatech, to take full responsibility for the current state of the road. They called for urgent repairs and a clear timeline for completion, insisting that further delays would only deepen the crisis.
As public frustration reaches a boiling point, all eyes are now on the government to act swiftly before more lives and livelihoods are lost.
