By By Zik Gbemre
The Effurun-Sapele-Benin Road, a federal highway, has deteriorated into what could be considered one of the most challenging federal roads in the country. A journey that should take motorists little over an hour now reportedly consumes an entire day.
Against this backdrop, the frequent social media campaigns by Senator Ede Dafinone and his supporters, advocating for his re-election to “complete two tenures,” raise questions for many constituents. Similar questions could be directed towards other Urhobo politicians representing the area in the House of Representatives.
There is a growing perception that representation for some has become more about online visibility than tangible development. It is notable that Senator Dafinone accompanied Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to commission constituency projects in Kogi State shortly before her suspension. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, also a first-timer who spent fewer months in the Senate due to election litigation, managed to deliver visible projects in a short time—a feat that has drawn local commentary.
It is therefore deeply concerning that the main road leading to Senator Dafinone’s hometown of Sapele remains in a deplorable state. Similarly, the Osubi Airstrip within his constituency appears neglected. The need for an upgrade and expansion of its runway to accommodate larger aircraft has been a long-standing community demand.
This issue also falls under the purview of the Minister of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, a native of Effurun in Uvwie Local Government Area, located just kilometres from the airstrip. Furthermore, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is a native of Osubi Town. Observers note that these key figures often use the Asaba Airport for their travels, while the Osubi Airstrip remains without the promised upgrades. Minister Keyamo’s repeated assurances regarding the runway’s expansion have, to date, not yielded visible results, leading to public disappointment.
The situation with state roads is equally troubling. The Effurun-Osubi-Orerokpe-Eku-Abraka road has collapsed and lies abandoned. In Abraka, the road has completely split into two at the main town junction.
When such issues are raised, the response from Governor Oborevwori’s administration has been to label critics as perpetrators of “cyber bullying”. Following a previous article on the state government’s handling of the Warri crises, a media aide to the Governor contacted this writer to suggest the critique constituted a cyber-bullying offence. Any administration that appears resistant to constructive criticism risks losing public trust. One does not expect seasoned commentators to praise public office holders for inaction. Advocacy for the public good must continue, irrespective of the individuals involved.
The popular Udu-Ughievwem Road was in a very poor condition until recent days, when patchwork began on some sections. This road, which connects Warri-Enerhen-Udu-Ughievwen down to NEPA, experiences heavy traffic, including vehicles travelling to Bayelsa and Port Harcourt from Udu and Ughelli South. It is a strong candidate for being upgraded to a dual carriageway.
Meanwhile, the local Representative, Francis Waive, is often active on social media. He has recently taken to praising the Governor, nicknaming him “Road Master.” This title seems at odds with the current state of the road to his own hometown of Obi-Ayagha, which is not in a good, motorable condition. Questions also remain about the federal medical centre in Udu, which currently has little more than a signpost to show for its existence.
There is a palpable sense of frustration that the current political representation in Delta Central is not delivering the development the people deserve.
#Zik Gbemre
October 6,2025
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