– By Godfrey C. Osakwe, fnipr, fciism
Concerned stakeholders of Akwukwu-Igbo, headquarters of Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, have appealed to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to prioritise the community’s infrastructural development, calling for urgent government intervention in critical sectors affecting the wellbeing and socio-economic advancement of the people.
The appeal was contained in a welcome address formally sent to Governor Oborevwori in connection with his campaign visit to Akwukwu-Igbo, in which the stakeholders welcomed the governor and his entourage while drawing attention to the persistent infrastructural challenges confronting the historic community.
In the address, presented on behalf of the concerned stakeholders by Development Communications Specialist, Godfrey C. Osakwe, fnipr, fciism, the community acknowledged the infrastructural strides of the Oborevwori administration under its MORE Agenda but appealed for more deliberate attention to Akwukwu-Igbo and neighbouring communities in the equitable distribution of development projects across the state.
Osakwe noted that Akwukwu-Igbo occupies a significant place in the history of Anioma, Delta State and Nigeria, with considerable agricultural potential, strategic proximity to Asaba and an abundance of accomplished human resources who have made remarkable contributions to national development.
He cited prominent sons of the community, including Chief O.U.C. Mokwenye (Obed Uzumefune Chromwell), Chief Michael Ashikodi Agbamuche, SAN, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; Chief Newton Jibunoh, renowned environmentalist; and Chief Edwin Egwuenu, distinguished banker and philanthropist, among others.
However, he regretted what he described as a painful contradiction between the historical significance of Akwukwu-Igbo and its present infrastructural condition, stressing that the headquarters of a local government area ought to serve as a model of development.
The stakeholders identified road infrastructure, education, healthcare, electricity, potable water, security, economic infrastructure and public recreational facilities as priority areas requiring urgent government attention.
Specifically, they appealed for the rehabilitation and construction of township roads and connecting roads linking Akwukwu-Igbo with neighbouring communities to enhance mobility, commerce and access to essential services.
They also called for the rehabilitation and modernisation of public primary and secondary schools, with improved laboratories, libraries, learning facilities and conducive teaching environments.
On healthcare, the stakeholders urged the state government to upgrade the Akwukwu-Igbo General Hospital and provide a functional, adequately equipped primary healthcare centre supported by essential medical personnel and services.
They further stressed the need for sustainable electricity supply and access to clean, potable water, describing both as fundamental requirements for modern living and economic productivity.Of particular concern to the stakeholders is the deplorable condition of the Akwukwu-Igbo Divisional Police Headquarters and adjoining police barracks.
Osakwe observed that a community serving as a local government headquarters should not have security facilities that portray neglect or abandonment, emphasising that security personnel deserve decent working and living conditions to enable them to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
He noted that recent security concerns in the area had further underscored the need for improved security infrastructure, operational logistics and adequate government support.
The stakeholders also advocated the establishment of a modern market, a functional motor park and other economic facilities capable of stimulating commercial activities, generating employment opportunities and unlocking the agricultural potential of the community.
Other requests include the development of a befitting Local Government Secretariat, recreational and sporting facilities, as well as a properly planned public cemetery.
Recognising the economic realities confronting government, the concerned stakeholders expressed their willingness to explore collaborative development frameworks, including Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), community participation and strategic engagement with private investors.
They, however, maintained that such partnerships must be supported by clear government commitment, a defined development framework and measurable implementation targets.
The stakeholders consequently appealed to Governor Oborevwori to constitute a government-led development assessment team to undertake an on-the-spot evaluation of Akwukwu-Igbo’s infrastructural needs and recommend phased interventions with clearly defined timelines.
According to them, the MORE Agenda would become more meaningful when its dividends are visibly extended to every community, particularly those that have remained on the margins of infrastructural development.
In a particularly strong message to the governor, Osakwe declared that Akwukwu-Igbo deserves more than being remembered during political campaigns, insisting that the community requires a sustainable development plan capable of addressing its long-standing infrastructural challenges.
He urged the governor to look beyond the political significance of his visit and recognise the legitimate development aspirations of a historic community whose people desire a decent environment in which to live, work, raise families and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Delta State.
The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to peace, unity and development, while expressing optimism that the governor’s visit would mark the beginning of a renewed development partnership between the Delta State Government and the people of Akwukwu-Igbo.
They concluded by reiterating their demand for equitable development, functional infrastructure and meaningful transformation of the community.
“Akwukwu-Igbo deserves equitable development. Akwukwu-Igbo deserves functional infrastructure. Akwukwu-Igbo deserves transformation.”