Abuja–South-East Roads Now Death Traps, Igbo Association Tells Nigerian Government, Lawmakers
The Igbo Community Association in the Federal Capital Territory (ICA FCT) has issued a distress call regarding the crumbling state of major highways connecting Abuja to the South-East. In a statement released on Wednesday, the association characterized these critical routes as “death traps” and attributed their decay to decades of systemic neglect by successive administrations. The group warned that the worsening infrastructure has not only stifled economic growth but has also created a security vacuum that endangers thousands of Nigerian citizens.
The association highlighted a perceived disparity in how national infrastructure projects are prioritized across the country. According to the statement, “The deplorable state of roads connecting Abuja to the South East reflects a glaring imbalance in resource allocation.” The ICA FCT further asserted that, “For decades, these roads have been abandoned by lawmakers and the Federal Government, turning them into havens for criminals and exposing travellers to grave danger.” This neglect, they argue, has led to a rise in youth unrest and a profound sense of exclusion within the region.
As the festive season drives a surge in travel toward the South-East, the group is demanding that the Federal Government declare a state of emergency on these transit corridors. They maintain that the human cost of inaction is too high to ignore, stating, “As citizens travel these routes this holiday season, their safety and dignity must be prioritised.” They pointedly added that, “Lives should not be lost simply because government failed to fix strategic national roads,” while urging the Minister of Works and regional lawmakers to finally deliver on their mandates.
Beyond the immediate safety concerns, the ICA FCT emphasized that the South-East remains a cornerstone of the national economy and deserves infrastructure that reflects its contribution. Their demand for equity was clear: “The South East is a vital part of Nigeria. We demand better infrastructure, improved security, and equitable resource allocation. Our people deserve safe passage, improved livelihoods, and genuine inclusion in Nigeria’s growth narrative.” The group stressed that these neglected roads have become “easy operating grounds for criminal elements,” directly impacting the nation’s overall stability.
The association, led by President Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe and Secretary General Mazi Emmanuel Chinwoke Onah, concluded with a stern political warning directed at representatives who remain passive. “The patience of South East communities is wearing thin. If our lawmakers fail to act decisively, we will mobilise voters against their re-election. The ballot is a powerful tool, and we will not hesitate to use it to hold leaders accountable,” the statement warned. The ICA FCT remains steadfast in its goal of an “Igbo Renaissance,” noting that “This is about safety, dignity, and fairness,” and they are now awaiting concrete action from the authori
