By UDU, DELTA STATE – Tensions flared in Udu on Tuesday as angry residents and commuters staged a protest, accusing Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Udu Local Government Area Chairman, Vincent Oyibode, and Obakpor Engineering Chairman, Olorogun John Oguma, of neglecting the collapsed Ovwian/Udu road — a major artery leading to the local council headquarters.
The protesters, members of a civil society coalition, brandished placards and gathered at the Cross and Stop Junction on Udu Expressway.
Protesters at the most deplorable portion of the Udu road
From there, they marched to a badly damaged section of the road near Daddy Bakery, demanding urgent repairs.
“We Are Tired Of Empty Promises”
According to the demonstrators, successive appeals to the state government and its contractor have gone unheeded, despite the road’s critical role in daily transportation and commerce.
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“We are tired of empty promises,” said Olorogun James Mudiaga, one of the protest leaders.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori
“There is no passable road in Udu. Orhuwhorun, Owhrode, Ovwian—all have been abandoned. This road is under the state government’s jurisdiction, and it is in an appalling state.
“Governor Sheriff, we are calling on you to intervene. We are suffering. That’s why we’re out here today in peaceful protest. Oguma, the contractor, has refused to act. The Council Chairman claims it’s out of his hands until the government mobilises the contractor.”
Warning Of Direct Action
Another leader, Comrade Goodluck Mukoro, warned that the protest could escalate if their demands continue to be ignored: “If the government refuses to fix this road, we will block it and occupy it indefinitely. Enough is enough.
“We’re also calling on NDDC, DESOPADEC, WEUDA, and other agencies to listen to our cry. This is the only major road serving the area—it is disgraceful that it’s been left to deteriorate so badly.”
The deplorable road at Udu
Daily Suffering, Real Danger
Local residents shared accounts of daily hardship caused by the road’s condition.
Patrick Onoriode, a driver, said: “I pass through this road every day and end up at the mechanic’s almost as often. I’ve changed my car’s bumper three times in four months. I live in Ujevwu and work on Udu Road. The suffering is beyond words.
“It seems the government only remembers us during elections.”
David Idowu, a panel beater, recounted a near-death experience: “Two weeks ago, I almost lost my life when my bike hit a pothole. Only God saved me.
“Our leaders are waiting for casualties before they act. Yet they collect levies from us regularly. It’s wickedness. We need this road fixed—urgently.”
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The Delta State government has yet to respond to the demands of the residents and road users as of the time of filing the report.
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