The recent carnage on the East-West Road has left many wondering why such a tragedy could occur in this day and age. The truth is that the root cause of this problem lies in poor governance and leadership.
Many factors have contributed to the needless deaths on the East-West Road, particularly in the Eleme-Onne area. The fact that the carnage occurred so close to Indorama Eleme Petrochemical Ltd. raises serious questions about the company’s corporate social responsibility. Why did they not send their fire trucks to the scene? This lack of empathy and responsibility towards the host communities is unacceptable.
Moreover, the government’s lack of action is just as concerning. Out of the 12 flyovers constructed in Rivers State, why was a flyover not constructed over the Aleto bridge? The government has known about the suffering of the people in that area since 2015, yet they have not taken any action. Nigeria has shown little concern for the people of Rivers State. This lack of good governance is unacceptable.
Local government areas in Nigeria do not have fire stations and trucks, which is another contributing factor to the carnage on the East-West Road. Why were fire trucks not deployed from Eleme, Okrika, and Port Harcourt to the scene? The lack of empathy and care for the people is appalling because there are no functional fire stations and trucks.
What is even more concerning is the lack of empathy shown by so-called leaders. Instead of mourning and reflecting on the tragedy, they were attending parties. How can the people of Nigeria take their leaders seriously when they show such callousness towards their own people?
As a prominent Son of Rivers State, I am calling on the state government and the leadership of the South-East senatorial area to declare seven days of mourning. This would show the many families affected by these deaths and destructions that they are not alone. We need to show the love of God and protection for the people.
Sir (Dr) Leesi Gborogbosi
Next Leader of Rivers State.
❤️ Jesus Christ is Lord and Saviour
