By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Youths from 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 to begin construction on the long-abandoned Ukala-Okwute-Ezi-Ebu-Ukala Okpunor road.
Under the banner of Concerned Youths for Good Governance, the protesters staged a peaceful demonstration on Monday at the Interbau Roundabout in Asaba, accusing the government of years of neglect that have plunged their communities into hardship.
In a statement to the Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo, protest leader Comrade Henry Imuma described the road as a vital link to markets, schools, and health centres for the affected communities.
“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 added that the road’s condition has increased accidents and insecurity, isolating the communities and restricting access to basic services.
The group demanded that the government immediately mobilise contractors to the site, provide a clear public project timeline, issue regular updates to the communities, and ensure that construction meets durable standards.
They also requested an official statement on the project and called for a leadership meeting within seven days to discuss the way forward.
“Our protest is peaceful and constructive,” Imuma stressed. “We are not opposing the government, but we will no longer remain silent while our people continue to suffer due to government inaction.”
Responding, Chief of Staff Hon. Johnson Erijo commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct, assuring them that the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration is committed to equitable development.
“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 speaking, Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, who had earlier appealed for the protest to be suspended, praised the youths for their maturity and assured them that the road would soon receive attention.
He promised ongoing dialogue between local authorities and the state government to ensure urgent intervention.