By Winifred Michael
The Calabar-Itu road, a crucial artery connecting Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, has deteriorated to a critical level, causing frustration and concern among travelers and residents.
The worsening state of the road has heightened fears of delays, accidents, and economic difficulties in the region.
Large potholes and severe erosion have left the road nearly impassable, with recent heavy rains further complicating the situation. Travelers heading to Akwa Ibom and other States are now reconsidering their journeys due to the road’s poor condition.
Local businesses have also been hit hard, as traders and commuters find it increasingly difficult to reach Calabar and nearby towns. The disruption in the flow of goods and services has led to rising costs and a slowdown in economic activities.
A journey that should take just two hours now often extends to eight, forcing some travelers to seek alternative routes, including by water. However, even these alternatives pose risks. CrossRiverWatch gathers that a speedboat carrying passengers from Oron to Calabar was hijacked by sea pirates a few days ago.
“And they (politicians) fly up in the sky, we suffer in these kinds of roads,” a traveler vented. “I spent 8 good hours here yesterday. The road is in a terrible condition; the government should do something about it already.”
Efforts to rehabilitate the Calabar-Itu road have faced numerous delays and obstacles, leading to protests and petitions from various groups and civil society organizations over the years.
The dire state of the Calabar-Itu road underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure in the Niger Delta and other regions across the country. As the government struggles with road maintenance, residents are left to navigate dangerous conditions, longing for a safer and more reliable transportation network.
This situation serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for investment in infrastructure to support economic growth and development in the region.
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