In the heart of Nigeria’s Cross River State, the Igede community in Yala Local Government Area is grappling with a longstanding issue that affects their daily lives and livelihoods – the lack of access roads for their farm yields. As the rainy season sets in, the inner roads become increasingly deplorable, making it even more challenging for the community to transport their farm produce to markets and other essential areas.
Despite these challenges, the community has expressed optimism about the visible efforts towards rehabilitating the Ukulele Road, a development that brings hope for improved accessibility and connectivity. However, their plight goes beyond just road rehabilitation. The community is calling on both state and federal governments to intervene in the construction of critical roads such as Igede U Road, Anyugbeto Operiku to Wanokom, and Operiku to Wanudu Wanikade. According to Patrick Agogo, the youth leader and former councilor, these roads will not only serve as vital links to bigger towns but also act as evacuation corridors for their farm produce.
The construction of these road projects, Agogo emphasized, would significantly alleviate the suffering of the community during the rainy seasons. Currently, the rains often cut off the roads, limiting accessibility to other parts of the local government area. Agogo highlighted the dire need for these infrastructural developments, stating, “Construction of that road project will alleviate the suffering of our people during the rainy seasons, as the rains usually cut off the road, stopping accessibility to other parts of the local government area.”
Beyond road infrastructure, the Igede community is also seeking the installation of electricity and pipe-borne water, among other basic amenities, to provide relief and improve the living conditions of its people. Agogo made a heartfelt appeal to both the state and federal governments to come to their aid in the area of infrastructural development, underscoring that the community has faced marginalization for a long time.
The community’s plea for essential infrastructure is not just about development; it’s about addressing the fundamental needs of its people. The lack of access to basic amenities like electricity, water, and good roads has compounded the community’s challenges, affecting their ability to thrive. As Agogo and the community await the government’s response to their pleas, their situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of infrastructural development in enhancing the quality of life and economic opportunities for rural and marginalized communities. The Igede community’s story is a testament to the resilience of its people and their determination to seek a better future, one where they have access to the basic necessities that many take for granted.