Frustrated by decades of government neglect, the youth of Igedde took to the streets today in a peaceful protest, calling for the immediate rehabilitation of the Otukpo-Obi-Oju Road. This vital federal link connecting Benue and Cross River States has fallen into a deplorable state since its construction in 1988 under the Babangida administration, remaining unaddressed for 37 years.
The protest, which began at 9 a.m. from Obarike Roundabout and extended to the Opirikwu-Jiegwu axis, aims to draw national attention to the road’s condition. Organizers describe it as a “death trap,” citing frequent accidents that have claimed lives and turned the route into a haven for kidnappers and robbers, isolating Igedde communities.
“We are not slaves or foreigners; we are Nigerians and deserve better,” the protesters declared, directing their plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, SGF George Akume, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Minister of Works Dave Umahi. They vowed to remain on the streets until concrete steps are taken, insisting the road’s repair is not a mere campaign gimmick.
The movement has rallied under the hashtag #FixOtukpoObiOjuRoad, with a call to action urging all Igedde sons and daughters—online and offline—to amplify the cause across all platforms. As the protest continues, the community hopes for swift governmental response to address this long-standing issue.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
