Ukorebi Esien | April 28 2026
BEKWARRA — The Executive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung, has initiated steps to address the deplorable condition of the Katsina Ala–Abuochiche Federal Highway following growing public concern over the hardship faced by commuters and residents along the route.
The intervention comes on the heels of advocacy efforts led by a Chairman National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi during a statewide “Future First” tour, where firsthand observations revealed the severe deterioration of the road, which has significantly disrupted transportation, economic activities, and daily life in the area.
During the visit, commuters and business owners lamented the dual burden of navigating the near-impassable road while also contending with multiple levies allegedly imposed along the axis. The situation, they said, has compounded economic hardship and increased the cost of movement and trade.
In response, Olayi immediately escalated the matter to the state office of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), providing visual evidence of the road’s condition and calling for urgent intervention. He also demanded the suspension of multiple collections and illegal tolls on the corridor, arguing that it was unjust to subject already struggling road users to further financial strain.
An earlier report by Daily News Nigeria highlighted this demand, noting that the call to halt illegal tax and forced toll collections was rooted in the deteriorating economic realities faced by commuters using the failed highway.
Following the outcry, Hon. Egbung assured that remedial works were already in the pipeline. According to field reports, contractors have since mobilized to the site, signaling the commencement of repair efforts aimed at restoring accessibility along the critical federal road.
The Katsina Ala–Abuochiche road remains a vital link for communities in northern Cross River, and its rehabilitation is expected to significantly improve mobility and livelihoods across the region.
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