Residents of Rumukwachi community in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have appealed to the government to urgently resume and complete the construction of the road linking Ozuoaba to Ogbogoro, lamenting that the abandoned project has turned daily life into a struggle, especially during the rainy season.
As the video of condition of the road keeps trending, residents says, the road, which was previously under construction, has been left unfinished for a long period. As a result, heavy rainfall now causes severe flooding across the area, making movement difficult for motorists, traders, and residents.
Community members say the situation has become worse in recent weeks as continuous rainfall leaves large sections of the road submerged. Floodwater reportedly flows into nearby shops and residential buildings, causing damage to property and disrupting business activities.
Speaking on the condition of the road, a resident identified as Mr. Chinedu said the abandoned project has brought hardship to many families living along the route.
“We were happy when work started on the road because we believed our suffering would finally end. Unfortunately, the project was abandoned, and now every rainfall turns the entire area into a river. Vehicles can hardly pass, and people struggle to move around,” he said.
Another resident and shop owner, Mrs. Grace Nwankwo, explained that floodwater regularly enters her business premises whenever it rains.
“Each time it rains, I rush to save my goods because the water enters my shop. Some of my products have been damaged several times. We are begging the government to come and complete this road so that businesses can survive,” she said.
Commercial drivers who use the road have also expressed frustration over its deteriorating condition. Many say they now avoid the route due to the risk of vehicle damage and the possibility of getting trapped in flooded sections.
A tricycle operator in the area noted that transportation costs have increased because drivers are forced to take longer alternative routes.
“The road has become almost impassable. Many drivers no longer want to pass here, and passengers are the ones suffering. We need urgent intervention before the situation gets worse,” he stated.
Residents further warned that if immediate action is not taken, the flooding could lead to more property damage and create health concerns as stagnant water continues to accumulate around homes and business premises.
The community is therefore calling on the Rivers State Government and relevant authorities to urgently return to the site, complete the road project, and provide proper drainage systems to address the persistent flooding.
They expressed hope that their appeal would receive prompt attention, stressing that the completion of the Ozuoaba–Ogbogoro road would significantly improve transportation, boost economic activities, and restore normalcy to the affected communities.
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