South-South Roads In Ruin: Nigerians Demand Emergency Action
By NINI NDUONOFIT-AKOH
NIGERIA’S South-South region is in the grip of an infrastructural crisis as highways like the East-West and Benin-Warri roads collapse under decades of neglect and corruption. Commuters endure life-threatening journeys, accidents are frequent, and businesses suffer crippling losses due to inflated transport costs and disrupted supply chains.
Residents describe the highways as “silent executioners,” with accidents involving tankers and trailers causing repeated tragedies. Teachers, traders, and farmers say the poor roads have strangled economic activity, leaving only spare parts dealers to profit.
The decay extends into urban centres like Benin City’s GRA, where even roads near the governor’s residence are impassable. Citizens blame mismanagement by agencies such as the NDDC, short-term fixes, and corruption. Experts warn that poor infrastructure not only endangers lives but also erodes mental health and stifles growth.
Calls are growing for the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on South-South roads and adopt lasting solutions—ranging from durable construction and proper drainage to governance reforms and accountability.
