By Oghenefejiro Emado
14, September 2025
The Amuokpokpor-Elume community in Sapele Local Government of Delta State, Nigeria, has called on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to reconstruct a failed road that has severely impacted their economy.
The community leaders made the appeal while interacting with newsmen following their continuous complaints about the deplorable state of the road, loss of life, and paralysis of their economic activities just a year after its completion by the contractor.
According to the Community Chairman, Daniel Ogbodo, the project which was awarded in 2020 has deteriorated due to alleged substandard materials used by the contractor, posing a “death trap” to residents.
Community leaders, including Chairman Daniel Ogbodo, Elder Olu Majelele, and President General Felix Emuobonuvie, expressed frustration over the road’s condition, citing frequent accidents, loss of life, and economic hardship.
They explained that Amuokpokpor Community is a thriving agricultural hub, producing crops like cassava, rubber, and plantains, as well as engaging in fishery and palm oil production but the deplorable road conditions have made it challenging for them to market their products, resulting in exorbitant transportation costs – with drivers doubling their fares due to the poor state of the roads. This has led to spoilage of farm produce, further exacerbating the community’s struggles.
The community is urging NDDC to inspect the road, address their concerns, and extend the project to include a jetty and drainage system to prevent flooding.