By: Ike Philip Abiagom
Residents of Asaba, the Delta State capital, have expressed deep frustration over the poor state of Ezenei Avenue, describing it as a “major embarrassment” in the heart of the capital territory.
The busy road, which connects several parts of Asaba including Umuagu, Nnebisi Road, and other adjoining streets, has reportedly been left in a deplorable condition for years — with potholes, flooding, and erosion making it nearly impassable, especially during the rainy season.
Speaking to journalists, some residents lamented that the road has become a nightmare for motorists and pedestrians.
“Ezenei Avenue is supposed to be one of the pride roads of Asaba, but look at it today — completely abandoned,” said Mr. Chuks Okolie, a resident.
“We are appealing to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to come to our aid. The road has been neglected for too long.”
Business owners along the avenue also decried the loss of customers due to the poor road condition.
“Whenever it rains, the entire stretch becomes flooded. We can’t even open our shops because the water blocks our entrances,” said Mrs. Onome Efe, a trader.
Community leaders have called on the Delta State Ministry of Works and Urban Development to urgently include Ezenei Avenue in its next phase of capital city rehabilitation projects.
They noted that since Asaba is the state capital, roads such as Ezenei Avenue should reflect the government’s commitment to urban renewal and infrastructural development.
“If the state government can fix Ezenei Avenue, it will greatly improve traffic flow and business activities in this part of the city,” said a youth leader in Umuagu quarters.
Residents are hopeful that the Oborevwori-led administration, under its MORE Agenda, will prioritize the rehabilitation of the road to ease their suffering and restore Asaba’s image as a modern capital.