Abraka-Oben Road Commissioning: Minister Slams Baseless Attacks, Sets The Record Straight

PRESS STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Abraka-Oben Road Commissioning: Minister Slams Baseless Attacks, Sets The Record Straight

The Office of the Honourable Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, FNSE, categorically refutes the unfounded allegations being spread by a misinformed group of youths from Ugu Ward in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo State.

These individuals, driven by a misplaced sense of entitlement and a lack of understanding of governance, have launched an ill-advised smear campaign against the Minister and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), falsely claiming that a non-existent road was commissioned.

The Abraka-Oben Road is not a fabrication; it is a fully completed, functional infrastructure project that serves as a vital interstate link between Delta and Edo States. This road significantly enhances movement and security in the region, contrary to the misinformation being spread.

Their agitation is not only misleading but also laughable. The fact that the road does not pass through their community does not make it non-existent. Infrastructure development is carried out in phases, and this phase prioritized a crucial stretch that had deteriorated over the years, posing security risks and economic setbacks.

Prior to this intervention, the road had become nearly impassable, with criminal activities like kidnappings and armed robberies thriving. Thanks to the efforts of the NDDC under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the situation has greatly improved—a fact widely acknowledged by key stakeholders, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and respected traditional rulers present at the commissioning.

The commissioning event was graced by top dignitaries, including:

• Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Commissioner for Works, Highways, and Urban Roads, Reuben Izeze.
• Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, Chairperson of the House Committee on NDDC and representative of Ethiope Federal Constituency.
• Traditional rulers and community leaders, who lauded the project’s impact.

Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu praised the NDDC for its commitment to quality infrastructure, describing the road as a major relief for residents.

The Ministry of Regional Development and the NDDC operate with a strategic, need-driven approach to infrastructure. With thousands of communities in the Niger Delta facing critical development challenges—including poor road networks, lack of potable water, and inadequate healthcare—responsible leadership requires prioritization.

Instead of fabricating baseless claims, well-meaning citizens should advocate for subsequent phases of the project rather than attempting to undermine a completed and beneficial development.

Let it be clear: The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Regional Development and the NDDC, remains committed to delivering sustainable and transformative infrastructure across the Niger Delta. No amount of misinformation, blackmail, or entitlement-driven propaganda will derail this mission.

Communities with genuine concerns should engage constructively with relevant authorities rather than resort to baseless theatrics. It is disappointing that while many communities face real development challenges, some individuals choose to fight an imaginary battle over a successfully completed project.

The Honourable Minister, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, FNSE, urges the public to disregard these false claims. The Ministry remains focused on fostering development that benefits all Niger Deltans, refusing to be distracted by those who prefer propaganda over progress.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah
Special Assistant on Media
Office of the Honourable Minister of Regional Development
Federal Republic of Nigeria