Our Reporter, Abuja
A lively exchange among senior journalists on social media has sparked renewed public attention on the state of road infrastructure in Nigeria’s South-East, with several reporters commending governors in the region for notable improvements, particularly in rural communities.
The conversation was initiated by Lagos-based journalist, Emeka Alex Duru, who took to his Facebook page after travelling through parts of the South-East during the festive season. Reflecting on his experience, Duru praised the governors for what he described as a visible transformation of road networks across the region.
“Kudos to the South-East governors on roads and opening up the communities,” he wrote.
His observation drew swift endorsement from Andy Ekugo, a veteran journalist based in Abuja also from the zone, who provided a detailed account of his own recent journeys across Imo and Anambra states. Ekugo said he travelled extensively by road—from Owerri to Owerre Umudioka, Orlu, Ekwulobia, Achala, Igbariam and Nnewi—and was impressed by the quality of rural roads.
“I can tell you that Hope Uzodinma and Soludo have done very well on rural roads,” Ekugo noted, adding that most of the bad portions he encountered were active construction sites likely to be completed before the end of the year. He also observed improved security and increased movement across communities, suggesting a revival of economic and social life in the region.
“People are home with all manners of exotic cars. There are mansions in our villages. Folks are really looking homeward now,” he wrote, while also raising concerns about alleged extortion by some security personnel on highways.
Not all contributors, however, shared the same optimism.
One journalist, lamented that the road improvements had yet to reach his own community in Imo State, prompting an appeal for more inclusive development. Similarly, Ugochukwu Ejinkeonye disputed claims of progress in parts of Imo, recounting a difficult journey from Owerri to Awka through Ideato.
“The roads were among the worst I have seen,” he said, describing the trip as physically exhausting.
Another Abuja based journalist, Uche Ugboajah, acknowledged improvements in parts of the South-East but questioned why key routes in the Mbaise axis of Imo State remained in deplorable condition.
“This road miracle, why has it not happened around my Mbaise axis. The major road from Ahiara to Okpala is perhaps the worst road in the entire Imo State. From Uvuru to Umuohiagu to Owerri Airport, another important road, is terrible.”
Responding, Duru maintained that his comments were based strictly on personal observation and encouraged journalists and citizens alike to continue drawing attention to neglected areas.
“When Orlu seemed forgotten, some of us took it personal and it paid off. If Mbaise roads have been abandoned, then let’s speak up,” he said.
Ugboajah, however, remained unconvinced, arguing that sustained advocacy had not translated into action for his area.
“I don’t think it is about speaking up alone. We have done more than shouting from rooftops. I am beginning to suspect that politically under Hope Uzodimma, Mbaise is a penal colony,” he asserted.
Despite differing views, the discussion underscored a broader consensus that road infrastructure in parts of the South-East has seen improvement, even as gaps remain. For many observers, the exchange serves as both commendation for progress made and a reminder that equitable development across all communities remains an unfinished task.
