From Janet Okereke, Owerri
The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mbaitoli Local Government Area chapter of lmo State has raised the alarm over the worsening state of infrastructure across Mbaitoli under the current APC-led administration, calling on the State Government to declare a state of emergency on infrastructure in the council.
The party recalled the recent public outcry over the deplorable condition of the School for the Deaf at Ofekata, Orodo, describing the situation as unacceptable and a reflection of government neglect.
According to the ADC, the deteriorating state of the institution, which caters to children with special needs, has exposed pupils to unsafe and inhumane conditions.
lt noted that the condition of the school attracted widespread condemnation from concerned Nigerians, civil society groups, members of the press, and security agencies, all of whom called for urgent intervention.
The party further lamented the deteriorating condition of the Hadel/Ogbo Oshishi–Akwakuma Road, saying that the road has become virtually impassable, causing significant hardship to residents, landlords, motorists, and business owners. It added that the poor state of the road has negatively affected economic activities within the area.
According to the ADC, many public schools, healthcare facilities and inter-community roads across Mbaitoli remain in poor condition despite the local government’s proximity to the state capital and its growing population.
The party also expressed concern over the pace of work on the Oguta–Ukwuorji–Umunoha–
The ADC further alleged that some political leaders who should champion the interests of Mbaitoli have remained silent in the face of the area’s infrastructural challenges.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s Local government chairman in Mbaitoli LGA, Pharmacist Nwosu Canice Chukwunonyerem, and made available to Journalists in Owerri.
The statement also questioned the Imo State Government’s decision to approve ₦25 billion for housing for judges, while communities across the state continue to grapple with poor roads, failing public schools, heathcare, and inadequate infrastructure.
The party therefore called on
Governor Hope Uzodimma to urgently declare a state of emergency on infrastructure in Mbaitoli and commence immediate rehabilitation of critical roads, schools and other public facilities across the local government.
Traditional rulers, political leaders, community associations, organised unions, civil society organisations and all citizens of Mbaitoli to work together in advocating improved infrastructure and preparing proactive responses to emerging public health and environmental challenges.
The ADC also expressed concern over poor waste disposal across several communities in Mbaitoli, warning that the absence of an effective waste management system could expose residents to possible outbreaks of infectious diseases if urgent action is not taken.