By: Bayero Ade
Hundreds of women from the Ntsuruakpa Izhia community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State staged a protest on Tuesday, demanding the completion of the long-abandoned Abakaliki-Enugu expressway rehabilitation project.
According to Afripost, the women decried the deplorable state of the road, which they say has led to frequent accidents and loss of lives.
Gathering in the early hours of the day, the protesters—numbering over 900—blocked the dual carriageway at the Ezzamgbo Flyover, expressing frustration over the slow progress of the project, which has remained unfinished since last year.
Speaking on behalf of the demonstrators, Mrs. Blessing Okweshi condemned the dangers posed by the uncompleted road, stating that its poor condition has resulted in several tragic accidents.
“The most heartbreaking incident occurred last Sunday when a pregnant woman and her unborn child, along with another man, lost their lives instantly,” she lamented.
She further pointed out that the highway is riddled with potholes and heaps of sand, making it hazardous for motorists, especially in the absence of proper signage since 2024.
The traditional ruler of Ntsuruakpa Izhia, HRH Eze Joseph Ozogbuo Okafor, also criticized the contractor handling the project, urging authorities to take immediate action to prevent further loss of lives.
Responding to the protest, the Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Prince Ikechukwu Odono, arrived at the scene and appealed for calm. He assured the women that urgent steps would be taken to ensure the contractor resumes work and completes the project without further delay.
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