Reps call for immediate repair, completion of East-West Road

• Ask FG to pay outstanding liabilities to contractors

TRACKING___The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, urged Federal Government to immediately repair of failed portion of the East-West Road considering its economic viability.

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. (Prof.) Steve Azaiki and 20 other lawmakers, who underscored the need for the present administration to ensure timely completion of the road which span through five states, namely: Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Akwa-Ibom and Cross River.

The lawmaker who called for the House intervention expressed displeasure over the plight of road users and motorists on the failed section of the East-West road especially at the part serving Rivers to Bayelsa State as well as Bayelsa to Delta State.

In his lead debate, Hon. Azaiki stressed the importance of the road to communities in these oil-producing communities and other neighbouring States.

The lawmaker, who observed that the East-West Road which was constructed decades ago is one of the most important roads in Nigeria which contributes to the economy and development of the country, explained that the “road is in the heart of the oil-rich Niger Delta where the oil revenue is derived and hence very vital. The deplorable condition of the road makes traffic very heavy all season.

“The House further notes that it is in recognition of the importance of this road, that the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo approved the construction of a second carriageway and the rehabilitation of the existing one. Sadly, this road is yet to be completed.

“The House is informed that a greater portion of the road in these states have failed even as the project contracted to SETRACO construction company has been abandoned. The road has become a death trap and causes nightmares to commuters who have to unavoidably use the road.

“The House is further informed that in particular, some sections of the road in Bayelsa shall cut off in the coming few days as the rain intensified. This immediacy can only be saved if the Federal Government intervenes without further delay.

“The House believes that there is the need to urgently repair these failing, sinking sections of the road to avert more loss of lives, properties and ameliorate the hardship experienced by road users and ensure that the entire road is completed,” he urged.

In response to the motion, the House while urging the Contractor to return to site, urged Federal Government to redeem all liabilities owed the contractors on the construction of the East-West road.

In the bid to ensure compliance, the House referred motion to the joint House Committees of Niger Delta and Works for further legislative action.