Ex-envoy Igali criticizes Umahi over Niger Delta roads

Igali, a former Nigerian Ambassador to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, criticized Minister of Works David Umahi over the deteriorating condition of major roads in the Niger Delta during a live appearance on Africa Independent Television (AIT). He expressed his frustration, stating that listening to Umahi's claims about road repairs made him feel like "breaking" his television.

Igali highlighted the alarming state of the East-West Road and the Benin-Asaba corridor, noting that short journeys have turned into hours-long trips. He mentioned that the journey from Sapele to Warri, which used to take about 40-45 minutes, now takes approximately three hours.

Igali also referenced recent protests over the Benin-Asaba road's condition, describing the situation as an "injustice" given that the Niger Delta is a significant source of Nigeria's revenue. Following protests, Umahi inspected the road and attributed the issues to a concessionaire's failure to replace removed asphalt.

The Federal Government has initiated moves to revoke the concession, with President Bola Tinubu ordering immediate reconstruction of affected sections.