January 27, (THEWILL) — Leaders of the Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationalities in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), On Monday, lamented the poor state of infrastructure in Opobo town, saying the community lacks basic amenities despite having produced several high-ranking government officials.
They poured out their grievances during a radio programme, “MOSIEND Half Hour Community Voice on Rhythm 93.7 Port Harcourt”, monitored by THEWILL.
According to Comrade Favour Ubani, the chairman of Ibani Opobo clan, and Evangelist Rogers John Africa, the chairman of Kalama clan, they highlighted the challenges facing the community, including poor healthcare, inadequate electricity, lack of potable water, and insufficient educational facilities.
They questioned the legacy projects that the current Rivers State governor, Fubara, will be remembered for after his tenure.
When asked about notable projects in the town, Comrade Ubani said nothing tangible to show apart from the road from Bori to Opobo town, while Comrade Africa added that the road was started during Dakuku Peterside’s tenure as Commissioner for Works and completed by Governor Fubara.
The leaders also expressed concern over the health of pregnant women, who are forced to patronise local birth attendants due to the non-functional health centre.
“The issue of maternal healthcare is a concern to the women folks”, Comrade Ubani stated.
Opobo town also lacks streetlights, with existing ones provided by NDDC being insufficient. “We have streetlights from NDDC, but they aren’t enough”, Comrade Africa added. The community also lacks a fuel station, forcing residents to travel to Bori or Nkoro to buy fuel.
“The women need a market big enough for the population, and the children need clean water and healthcare.
“We call on the chairman of the council to ensure that basic amenities are provided for the people, which is the reason he was elected”, the leaders noted.
MOSIEND leaders are advocating for shore protection, empowerment of youths with skills, and monitoring of starter packs given to them while also lamenting the non existence of Constituency projects by Assembly members representing the people, calling on them to hold town hall meetings to seek the people’s needs and implement projects.
The leaders stated that the organisation’s advocacy for repositioning of the people for development is yielding dividends, specifically amongst the youths, which has reduced social vices, thereby bringing about peace and development.
The leaders commended Governor Fubara for awarding the construction of internal roads, but noted that the pace of construction is slow. Appreciating the Governor for making peace efforts in the state despite provocation and undemocratic shenanigans of political opponents aimed at destabilising governance.
Opobo town, which has produced several notable sons, including a deputy governor, commissioner, and now the current governor, still lacks basic amenities, highlighting the need for more development efforts.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
