Motorists and commuters navigating the troubled Asaba-Onitsha highway have voiced their concerns over the alarming number of accidents occurring on this deteriorating road, urging the federal government to take immediate action.

A shuttle bus driver, identified as Mr. Andrew Eze, reported to PUNCH Online that accidents happen almost daily, often resulting in tragic outcomes. “Every day, there’s an accident of some sort, whether it’s a vehicle striking a pedestrian or one vehicle colliding with another. Just this Tuesday, a vehicle hit a young boy, around 17 years old, near the Total filling station,” he shared. “He was crossing the expressway to buy sachet water, and unfortunately, the vehicle was driving the wrong way due to the poor road conditions. He was knocked down and died instantly.”

Eze also recounted another near disaster from the previous day when a truck carrying diesel overturned. “Fortunately, it didn’t explode, but it could have been catastrophic,” he added.

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In response to the ongoing dangers posed by the failed sections of the Asaba-Onitsha highway, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the state Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), has called for the federal government to prioritize the road’s repair. After a recent Executive Council Meeting, he emphasized that Governor Oborevwori is eager to see the road restored due to the significant challenges it presents to commuters.

He highlighted that the road’s poor condition is forcing drivers to reroute through the inner city, impacting local traffic patterns. Additionally, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, the State Commissioner for Information, revealed that the state executive has approved several infrastructure projects, including the construction of internal roads at the 63 Brigade Headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Ibusa, as well as the development of Aziken Avenue and housing projects in Boji-Boji Agbor.