Minister of Regional Development denounces allegations over road project
The Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, FNSE, has dismissed as baseless the claims made by a group of youths from Ugu Ward in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, who alleged that he commissioned a non-existent road.
In a statement issued by his office, Momoh described the accusations as a “mischievous smear campaign” fueled by misinformation and a lack of understanding of governance. He clarified that the Abraka-Oben Road, which was recently commissioned, is a tangible and fully completed project, serving as a critical interstate link between Delta and Edo States.
“The road is not an illusion, as these uninformed agitators claim. It plays a vital role in easing movement and improving security in the region,” the statement read.
The Minister explained that infrastructure projects are implemented in phases, and this particular phase focused on rehabilitating a section of the road that had become impassable due to years of neglect. Prior to the intervention by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the stretch was notorious for criminal activities, including kidnappings and armed robbery.
The commissioning of the road was attended by key stakeholders, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (represented by Commissioner for Works, Highways, and Urban Roads, Reuben Izeze), the Chairman of the House Committee on NDDC, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, and various traditional rulers. Hon. Ibori-Suenu commended the NDDC for delivering critical infrastructure, emphasizing the project’s significance for the local economy and security.
Momoh criticized the youth group for attempting to mislead the public, stating that their grievances were misplaced. “Simply because the road did not pass through their community does not mean it does not exist,” he said. He urged communities to engage constructively with authorities on development needs instead of resorting to propaganda and misinformation.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to infrastructure development in the Niger Delta, the Minister assured that the Ministry of Regional Development and the NDDC would continue to execute projects that address the region’s pressing needs, including roads, water, electricity, and healthcare.
“The Federal Government remains steadfast in delivering transformative projects across the Niger Delta. No amount of blackmail or entitlement-driven propaganda will derail this commitment,” he added.
