By Ella Michaels
A disturbing situation has been uncovered in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, where the much-publicized Niger Delta Light Up Project appears to be nonexistent. Despite being an oil-producing council entitled to benefit from programs of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the supervising ministry, the communities in Ohaji/Egbema have been left in the dark.
Lack of Development
Imoedge investigation reveals that while areas and LGAs in Imo State with no oil-producing activities are being furnished with NDDC road projects, Ohaji communities lack basic infrastructure, including roads. This glaring disparity has sparked outrage among locals, who are questioning the effectiveness of the NDDC in addressing their needs.
*Communities in Darkness*
In the Ohaji axis, communities such as Mgbirichi, Umuagwo, Umuapu, and surrounding towns of Umukene, Ethioha, and Abakuru are unaware of the Light Up Niger Delta Project, despite being part of the oil-producing area LGA. The absence of solar lights in these communities has made life difficult for residents, who are forced to live in darkness.
*Locals Demand Action*
Locals are discussing the matter and urging the appropriate government agency to look into the affairs of communities in Ohaji/Egbema. They are demanding that the NDDC and the supervising ministry take immediate action to address the lack of development in the area and provide the necessary infrastructure, including solar lights, to improve the lives of residents.
*Call for Investigation*
The situation in Ohaji/Egbema demands an investigation into the activities of the NDDC and the supervising ministry. It is essential to determine why the Light Up Niger Delta Project has not been implemented in the area, despite being an oil-producing LGA. The people of Ohaji/Egbema deserve better, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that they receive the necessary support and development.
*Conclusion*
The absence of the Light Up Niger Delta Project in Ohaji/Egbema communities is a clear indication of the neglect and marginalization of the area. The NDDC and the supervising ministry must take immediate action to address this situation and provide the necessary support to the communities. The people of Ohaji/Egbema will not be silenced, and they demand that their voices be heard.
*The Way Forward*
To address the situation in Ohaji/Egbema, the NDDC and the supervising ministry must prioritize the needs of the communities. This includes providing solar lights, roads, and other basic infrastructure to improve the lives of residents. The government must also ensure that the NDDC is held accountable for its actions and that the agency is working in the best interests of the people.
*Restoring Hope*
The people of Ohaji/Egbema are hopeful that the government will take immediate action to address their concerns. They believe that with the right support and development, their communities can thrive and become a model for development in the Niger Delta region. It is essential that the government restores hope to the people of Ohaji/Egbema by providing the necessary support and infrastructure.
*A Call to Action*
The situation in Ohaji/Egbema is a call to action for the government and the NDDC. It is time for the government to prioritize the needs of the people and ensure that the NDDC is working effectively to address the challenges faced by the communities. The people of Ohaji/Egbema deserve better, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that they receive the necessary support and development.
