Ediene Obong, Akwa Ibom – A N400 million road construction project in Ediene Obong, Akwa Ibom State, has been left in a state of disrepair, drawing sharp criticism from residents and prompting urgent calls for accountability.
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‎The project, intended to improve the Ikot Obong Ediene Road, was allocated in the 2023 Federal Government Budget and entrusted to Fortera Nigeria Ltd under the supervision of the Federal College, Eleyele Ibadan, with facilitation by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
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‎However, a recent investigation by Tracka, a citizen-led budget tracking organization, reveals that work has stalled since October 2024, leaving the community in distress.
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‎Tracka’s report, posted on X Sunday revealed work began in April 2024 but ground to a halt six months later, with no equipment or workers present to suggest a resumption. The poorly designed drainage system has exacerbated flooding during rains, forcing residents to evacuate their homes and suffer significant losses.
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‎Community members report that the road’s condition is now worse than before the project started, with stagnant water breeding mosquitoes and posing health risks.
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‎Tracka has urged immediate intervention, calling on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to investigate the project’s status and summon the Federal College, Eleyele Ibadan, for answers.
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‎The organization highlighted the frustration and vulnerability of Ediene residents, who have been left to contend with the project’s adverse effects, even as the N400 million allocation, a substantial investment, appears to have yielded little benefit, raising concerns about mismanagement or diversion of funds