Residents of Egbema in Imo State have raised concerns over the poor condition of roads, worsening economic hardship and insecurity affecting communities in the area.
The concerns were contained in a four-page address presented by Comrade Lawrence Okwudili Alex to the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, during a pastoral visit to Chukwunyere Catholic Parish, Mmahu, Egbema.
Alex said insecurity had become a major concern, particularly around the Agwa and iZombie axes, which he described as vulnerable to criminal and kidnapping activities.
“Insecurity poses a serious concern in our area. Specifically, Agwa and iZombie axis, have become den of criminals and kidnappers. The safety of travelers along these routes, can no longer be guaranteed because of uncertainties,” he said.
He also said the crisis in Abacheke had affected pastoral activities, with several parishioners displaced from their homes.
“Moreso, recent crisis in Abacheke community, has directly affected pastoral work of our members at St. Paul’s Station, Abacheke, where many parishioners have been displaced because of crisis and insecurity,” he said.
Alex appealed to the Archbishop to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and security in the affected communities.
He also lamented the condition of roads connecting Egbema to Owerri and other parts of Imo State.
“All the roads leading to Egbema from Owerri, are all in very deplorable and dilapidated condition,” he said.
According to him, the poor road network was affecting transportation, connectivity and inter-parish activities across the deanery.
“No local government area in Imo State, is experiencing what we are going through. We are so marginalized to the point where a blind can no more feel it, but now sees it,” he said.
He argued that the poor infrastructure was affecting virtually every aspect of life in the area.
“It affects both economic and all spheres of our people’s life. This is a case of the bird that lay the golden eggs, yet beg to be fed and eat crumbs,” he said.
Alex also alleged that government infrastructure and presence in the area were inadequate despite the economic contribution of Egbema to the state.
“There is no government infrastructure nor presence in an area that generates huge and massive allocation for the state,” he said.
He appealed to the Archbishop to use his position to draw attention to the challenges confronting the people.
“Your Grace, we humbly appeal to you, to use your good office, as voice of the oppressed, to speak on our behalf. State of emergency should be declared on all the roads leading to Egbema, our Deanery Head,” he said.
Alex further said the prevailing economic situation had made it increasingly difficult for families to meet their basic needs.
“The current economic situation has made life increasingly difficult for our parishioners. Many families now struggle to meet their basic needs,” he said.
Earlier in his homily, Archbishop Ugorji urged residents to reject wrongdoing and embrace values that promote peace, love and justice.
“Catholic Bishops will never be apologetic for speaking truth to power. Were we wrong to have told the President that the masses are suffering untold hardship, in the midst of plenty?” he asked.
He also urged Nigerians to reject corruption, bribery, theft of public funds and other practices that undermine citizens’ welfare.
“We should say no to corruption, bribery, stealing of public funds and all things that run counter to the welfare of Nigerian citizens. That’s how we can help to build an egalitarian society,” Ugorji said.
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