The Ochadamu – Umomi road, a crucial artery connecting several rural communities in Ofu Local Government Area, constructed between the year 1999 and 2000 by the Prince Abubakar Audu’s administration to reduce the travel time of residence of Idah, Ajaka, Ugwolawo, Umomi and other surrounding villages to the state capital, has been in a state of disrepair for far too long. This less than 10km stretch of road, which serves as a vital pathway to the over 75 year old Holley Memorial Hospital, has been abandoned, leaving the people of Umomi, Ugwolawo, and surrounding villages to suffer.
The deplorable condition of the road has severe consequences for the local population.
During the rainy season, the road becomes impassable, cutting off access to essential services, including healthcare, education, and markets. The Holley Memorial Hospital, a vital secondary Healthcare facility, is often inaccessible, leaving patients to suffer or seek alternative, often more expensive, options.
The economic implications of the abandoned road are equally dire. Farmers are unable to transport their produce to markets, resulting in significant losses and reduced income. The lack of access to markets also affects the local economy, as businesses are unable to receive goods or supplies, further exacerbating the economic hardship.
Moreover, the poor condition of the road poses significant safety risks. The absence of proper drainage, bridges and maintenance has led to the formation of deep potholes and gullies, making it a nightmare for motorists and pedestrians alike. The risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities is ever-present, adding to the overall sense of insecurity and vulnerability.
But that’s not all. The Ochadamu – Umomi road has become a hotspot for kidnappings, with criminal elements taking advantage of the road’s poor condition and lack of security presence. Travelers, including women and children, have been abducted and held for ransom, leaving families traumatized and communities terrified.
The security risk on this route is real and escalating. The lack of a functional road has created an environment conducive to criminal activity, with kidnappers and other nefarious elements exploiting the situation. The people of Umomi, Ugwolawo, and surrounding communities live in constant fear, unsure of when they will be targeted next.
Rehabilitating the Ochadamu – Umomi road is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic, social, and security necessity. The benefits of a rehabilitated road are multifaceted. These include:
- Improved access to healthcare, education, and markets
- Enhanced economic opportunities for farmers, businesses, and local communities
- Reduced risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities
- Increased sense of security and well-being for local residents
- Disruption of kidnapping and other criminal activities
I wish to use this medium to call on the kogi state government to take immediate action to rehabilitate the Ochadamu – Umomi road. This is not just a matter of infrastructure development; it is about restoring dignity, hope, and security to the people of Umomi, Ugwolawo, and surrounding communities.
The time to act is now. The people of Umomi, Ugwolawo, and beyond are counting on you, your Excellency.
– Comrade Opaluwa Eleojo Simeon
PhD Research student, Criminology and Security Studies Programme, National Open University of Nigeria.
