The Governor of Cross River State in southern Nigeria, Bassey Otu, has urged for the redesign of the East-West road to connect Calabar, the state capital.
During a meeting with the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on the East-West Road, led by Senator Abdul Ningi, Governor Otu expressed his concerns about the state of the road and emphasized the need for modifications in the design to prevent traffic congestion similar to what is experienced in major cities across Nigeria.
Governor Otu highlighted the significance of the East-West road, stating, “Even in this period of palliatives, if there is anything worse than not having the palliatives, then it is when the main artery that connects the state to the rest of the country is not there.”
He also drew attention to the deplorable condition of the Calabar-Ogoja highway, which is yet to be repaired.
Governor Otu expressed hope that the administration of President Bola Tinubu would prioritize critical infrastructure needs across the country, especially in Cross River State.
Sentator Ningi, in his remarks, revealed that the ad-hoc committee had undertaken an assessment of the East-West road, which links several states within the south-south region of Nigeria, including Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom.
Senator Ningi expressed his discontent regarding the lack of synergy among government agencies in the region, stating, “The inability of the overseeing agencies of government to come together and give the road the much-needed attention is really worrisome. There is a complete lack of synergy between the NDDC, Federal Ministry of Works, FERMA, and the states through which the road passes.”
The committee encountered severe traffic congestion on their way to Calabar through the Calabar-Itu highway, due to the abandonment of rehabilitation work by Julius Berger Construction Company. Senator Ningi described the situation as unprecedented, with thousands of trucks stuck in traffic for hours.
Senator Ningi emphasized the urgency of addressing the issues on the East-West road, including the final stage of the road, which is the Calabar-Oron end.
Upon their arrival in Cross River State, the ad-hoc committee was greeted by representatives from the Works department, highlighting the importance and attention given to their visit.
It is crucial for the government to address the concerns raised by Governor Otu and Senator Ningi regarding the East-West road, as it is a vital infrastructure that connects different states in the south-south region of Nigeria. The redesign and repairs of the road will ensure smoother transportation and promote economic growth in the area.
