Business Owners Slam Governor Otti Over Neglected Aba Roads, Forced to Use Canoes

Residents and business owners in Aba, Abia State, have expressed frustration over the worsening condition of Obohia Road, which has become heavily flooded, forcing many to resort to bamboo canoes for movement. In a video shared on social media on October 8, 2024, the residents directly criticized Governor Alex Otti, accusing his administration of neglecting the vital business area around Nkwo Ngwa Market.

The video, which quickly gained attention, shows residents wading through deep floodwaters, holding their footwear, while others use makeshift bamboo canoes to navigate the submerged road. The visibly distressed individuals claim that despite the governor’s online presence showcasing road repairs, little has been done to address the severe flooding and road decay in the city.

One resident, speaking in Igbo, condemned the situation, saying, “People are making bamboo canoes in Aba, but on social media, they say all the roads have been fixed. Aba is said to be leading in road construction, but the reality here is far from it.”

The residents urged Governor Otti to shift focus from social media portrayals to addressing the real issues on the ground. They alleged that instead of meaningful improvements, the government has been patching roads constructed by previous administrations, leaving critical areas like Obohia Road in a dire state.

Nkwo Ngwa, a significant commercial hub in Aba, generates substantial revenue for the state. However, the current conditions are crippling businesses and leaving many in the community struggling to move goods and access services.

The residents’ plea to Governor Otti is clear: immediate intervention is needed to fix the road and improve the situation for both the people and businesses of Aba.