Residents of Amaokai community recently staged a peaceful protest to highlight the deteriorating condition of their roads, specifically calling for the connection of the newly constructed road, attracted by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, to the Afia Orie-Amaokai Ugwueke road. While they expressed their gratitude for the new road, they emphasized that linking it to the dilapidated 300-meter stretch of the existing road is essential for improving accessibility and easing the struggles of local residents.
During the protest, participants displayed placards with messages such as “We need solid and quality road construction in Amaokai community,” “Afia Orie-Amaokai Ugwueke road needs quick intervention,” and “Flood has collapsed Amaokai bridge.” The community leaders praised Senator Kalu for his dedication to improving infrastructure in the area and appealed for his support in connecting the two roads.
Mr. Sunday Obiokpara, Vice-President of the Amaokai Ugwueke Development Union (AUDU), spoke on behalf of the protesters, stating, “We are not rejecting the new one-kilometer road he attracted, but since Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is the one who attracted the first road leading from Afia Orie to Amaokai Ugwueke, we are pleading with him to link the two roads because only this will benefit the community.”
Obiokpara further clarified that while the new road is appreciated, it is crucial to prioritize the rehabilitation of the existing road that connects the two areas. “Instead of starting this road rehabilitation from here, we urge you to begin from the 300 meters that were previously completed but have since fallen into disrepair.”
The community’s concerns underscore the importance of integrated road networks in enhancing accessibility and facilitating economic activities. The media aide to Senator Kalu, Mr. Maduka Okoro, responded to the protest, promising to reach out to the contractor handling the project for further discussions.
The collective voice of the Amaokai community reflects a commitment to collaboration with their representatives to ensure that infrastructure development meets the actual needs of the residents.
