The people of Amaobolobo in Afikpo North LGA, Ebonyi state, have suffered from the lack of a proper road network since its inception over 25 years ago, making transportation and trade a challenge and affecting the residents’ standard of living.
The road was so bad that it was a challenge for emergency services to reach the town quickly; children found it difficult to walk on the road to their schools, and businesses suffered due to the lack of network access.
We first visited the community in September 2021. We held a series of meetings with the residents and community leaders, taking them through how to conduct advocacy to construct the road.
The community swung into action, but unfortunately, the project was not included in the 2022 budget. However, we advised them to keep pressing, as the race was a marathon, not a sprint, and especially with the then-upcoming 2023 elections, there was a need to change strategy.
We encouraged them to visit their federal rep member as a collective body and insist on constructing the road as a bargain for their votes and support during the 2023 elections.
They did that, and the road was constructed and completed in August 2023. The new road has improved transportation, connectivity, and overall quality of life in the community, providing access to essential services and opportunities and stimulating trade.
Mrs Beatrice, a community member who had an accident on the road when it was terrible, expressed her gratitude for the transformation.
The completion of the road marked a significant milestone in the community’s journey as it was a testament to their unity, resilience, and the power of effective advocacy.
The people of Amaobolobo are also asking their elected representatives to provide public toilets and a transformer for the community.
Story by Ayomide Ladipo and Stella Omodia
