Frustrated by years of neglect, residents of Gana, Ugberikoko, and Oton communities in Sapele, Delta State, have announced plans for a peaceful protest on August 28, 2025, over the deplorable state of access roads in the area.
The protest, they say, is aimed at demanding urgent and comprehensive rehabilitation of the key routes linking the three communities, which have become almost impassable, especially during the rainy season.
The roads, described as critical arteries for commerce, education, and healthcare, are riddled with deep potholes, submerged sections, and erosion.
Community members accuse oil and gas giant SEPLAT Energy of worsening the situation through frequent use of heavy-duty vehicles and equipment without contributing to road maintenance.
They also fault the Sapele/Okpe community leadership and the Delta State Government for failing to take decisive action despite repeated appeals.
“We are not against development or industry. But you cannot destroy our roads and leave us to suffer,” one resident said.
While Sapele Local Government Chairman Hon. Bright Abeke has undertaken remedial work using stones on some bad portions, residents insist this is a short-term measure that washes away in heavy rains, leaving underlying structural issues unresolved.
The planned protest is being organized with legal backing as letters of notification have been sent to the Delta State Police Command, DSS, Nigerian Army and Navy, the Sapele Local Government Council, and SEPLAT Energy. Organizers insist it will be peaceful and lawful.
Protest demands include Full reconstruction of the Gana–Ugberikoko road, Accountability from SEPLAT Energy for road damage and Transparent commitments from community leaders and the Delta State Government as well as a published timeline and budget for road rehabilitation
Residents are also calling for the inclusion of the roads in the state’s capital infrastructure budget, the engagement of qualified contractors for durable work, and the establishment of a regular maintenance plan monitored by the community.
Reacting to the situation, a trader, Mrs. Ejiro said, “Our children walk through mud to get to school. Our cars break down weekly. We are tired,”
A commercial driver, Mr. Okon, added: “We appreciate Hon. Abeke’s efforts, but we need more than stones. We need real roads.”
The residents warn that unless immediate steps are taken including a joint inspection by government and community representatives and a public acknowledgment from SEPLAT; the August 28 protest will proceed as planned.
“This is not just about roads. It is about justice, dignity, and the right to live in a functional society,” stressed the organizer.
