Igarra, Edo – Despite the Nigerian government’s recent approval of N750billion for critical road projects, the Ibillo–Igarra–Auchi road in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State remains in complete disrepair, sparking outrage from residents and civic groups.

The civic technology platform, Monitng, has accused the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and the Edo State government under Governor Monday Okpebholo of turning a blind eye to the suffering of thousands who rely on the road daily for survival.

The road, which links several Edo communities to the Southwest and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has become a mud trap.

The few who dare to travel it are either stranded or forced to turn back. Monitng, after a recent visit, described the situation as appalling and dangerous.

“The situation is heartbreaking. Only motorcycles can navigate what’s left of the road. Cars and buses are stuck or forced to turn around.”

“We met farmers unable to move their produce, students missing school, and residents cut off from healthcare and basic services. The rainy season has made the road even worse, turning it into a mud trap with no alternative route in sight.”

The group also raised serious concerns about insecurity, warning that the poor road condition has emboldened criminal elements in the area.

“Even more troubling is the rise in insecurity. We spoke to residents who shared their fears about the increasing cases of kidnapping along this corridor.”

“These are communities that have been abandoned. No emergency access, no economic mobility, no government presence. People are frustrated, and rightly so; they are Nigerians, deserving of safe roads and functional public infrastructure.”

Monitng called for immediate intervention, stating that the lives and livelihoods of Akoko Edo residents are at stake.

“With over N750billion recently approved by the Federal Government for critical road projects across the country, this road must be on the priority list.”

“The people of Akoko Edo can no longer wait.”