Residents of Egbema in Imo State have called attention to the deteriorating condition of roads, rising insecurity and growing economic hardship in the area.
They said the challenges were affecting transportation, livelihoods, community activities and the general wellbeing of residents.
The concerns were presented in a four-page address delivered by Comrade Lawrence Okwudili Alex during the pastoral visit of the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, to Chukwunyere Catholic Parish, Mmahu, Egbema, at the weekend.
Alex identified insecurity as one of the most pressing challenges confronting the community.
He specifically mentioned the Agwa and iZombie axes, which he alleged had become increasingly exposed to criminal and kidnapping activities.
“Insecurity poses a serious concern in our area. Specifically, Agwa and iZombie axis have become den of criminals and kidnappers. The safety of travellers along these routes can no longer be guaranteed because of uncertainties,” he said.
He also drew attention to the recent crisis in Abacheke, saying it had disrupted pastoral activities at St Paul’s Station in the community.
According to him, several parishioners had been displaced by the crisis and insecurity.
“We appeal to Your Grace to remember them in your prayers and, where possible, support efforts towards peace, reconciliation and security,” Alex said.
Alex also lamented the condition of major roads connecting Egbema with Owerri.
He said the poor state of the routes had made transportation difficult and disrupted connectivity and inter-parish programmes across the deanery.
“As the Deanery Head, this is one of the challenges in Egbema Deanery. The poor nature of the roads affects smooth transportation, connectivity and inter-parish programmes,” he said.
He alleged that the area had experienced marginalisation despite its contribution to the state’s economy.
Alex complained about what he described as inadequate government infrastructure and presence in Egbema.
“It affects both economic and all spheres of our people’s life. This is a case of the bird that lays the golden eggs, yet begs to be fed and eats crumbs,” he said.
He appealed to Archbishop Ugorji to use his influence to draw attention to the difficulties facing residents and advocate better infrastructure and security.
“Your Grace, we humbly appeal to you to use your good office, as voice of the oppressed, to speak on our behalf. State of emergency should be declared on all the roads leading to Egbema,” he said.
Beyond infrastructure and security, Alex said residents were also struggling with the prevailing economic conditions.
He noted that the situation had made it increasingly difficult for many families to meet their basic needs.
Earlier in his homily, Archbishop Ugorji urged Nigerians to reject evil and embrace goodness, love and uprightness.
He said Catholic bishops would continue to speak openly about issues affecting the welfare of Nigerians.
“Catholic Bishops will never be apologetic for speaking truth to power. Were we wrong to have told the President that the masses are suffering untold hardship, in the midst of plenty?” he asked.
The Archbishop also condemned corruption, bribery, embezzlement of public funds and other practices that undermine citizens’ welfare.
“We should say no to corruption, bribery, stealing of public funds and all things that run counter to the welfare of Nigerian citizens. That’s how we can help to build an egalitarian society,” he said.
