Residents of rural communities in the Federal Capital Territory have called on Minister Nyesom Wike and area council chairmen to urgently address deteriorating road infrastructure ‘crippling businesses and economic activities’.
The affected communities are Leleyi (Gwari) in Kwali Area Council, Gaube in Kuje Area Council, Pesepa in Bwari Area Council, and Gofidna in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
In a statement signed by community leaders, residents appealed for an immediate assessment of the affected roads, emergency rehabilitation of the worst-hit sections, and durable reconstruction where rehabilitation was no longer sufficient.
‘The minister should ensure that rural communities receive equitable attention in the FCT infrastructure. It should provide proper drainage and erosion control measures to protect roads from further deterioration while engaging directly with community leaders and residents concerning road projects affecting their communities,’ the statement read.
The group also called for public disclosure of planned road projects, contractors and implementation timelines, urging authorities not to wait until roads become impassable, given that road access affects education, healthcare, agriculture and market activities.
They said residents deserved roads that would allow them to move freely and safely to conduct their businesses.