In a statement made available to SaharaReporters on Wednesday, the association condemned decades of neglect of critical road infrastructure serving the South-East, warning that the situation has worsened insecurity, hindered economic activities, and deepened feelings of marginalisation in the region.
The Igbo Community Association in the Federal Capital Territory (ICA FCT) has raised the alarm over the deteriorating condition of major roads linking Abuja to the South-East, describing them as “death traps” and calling on the Federal Government to urgently intervene.
In a statement made available to SaharaReporters on Wednesday, the association condemned decades of neglect of critical road infrastructure serving the South-East, warning that the situation has worsened insecurity, hindered economic activities, and deepened feelings of marginalisation in the region.
“The deplorable state of roads connecting Abuja to the South East reflects a glaring imbalance in resource allocation,” the association said.
“For decades, these roads have been abandoned by lawmakers and the Federal Government, turning them into havens for criminals and exposing travellers to grave danger.”
The group noted that the poor condition of the roads has had far-reaching consequences, including the disruption of trade, increased youth unrest, and heightened insecurity along major travel corridors.
According to the association, “continued neglect fuels youth unrest, cripples commerce, and further entrenches the feeling of exclusion among the people of the South East. This situation is unacceptable in a country that claims to be united.”
The ICA FCT called on the Nigerian government to declare a state of emergency on the affected roads, particularly as thousands of travellers head to the South East for the festive season.
“As citizens travel these routes this holiday season, their safety and dignity must be prioritised,” the statement said. “Lives should not be lost simply because government failed to fix strategic national roads.”
The association also urged lawmakers from the region and the Minister of Works to take urgent and decisive action.
“We call on lawmakers and the Minister of Works to step up and restore these roads to a standard befitting a region that is integral to Nigeria’s unity and progress,” the group said, adding that neglected roads have become “easy operating grounds for criminal elements.”
Emphasising the strategic importance of the South East, the association stressed that the region remains a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy and national development.
“The South East is a vital part of Nigeria,” the statement read. “We demand better infrastructure, improved security, and equitable resource allocation. Our people deserve safe passage, improved livelihoods, and genuine inclusion in Nigeria’s growth narrative.”
In a strongly worded warning, the association cautioned that political leaders who fail to address the issue could face electoral consequences in 2027.
“The patience of South East communities is wearing thin,” the group warned. “If our lawmakers fail to act decisively, we will mobilise voters against their re-election. The ballot is a powerful tool, and we will not hesitate to use it to hold leaders accountable.”
In the statement jointly signed by the President and Secretary Generals, Engr. Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, and Mazi Emmanuel Chinwoke Onah, respectively, the association said the situation reflects growing frustration among Igbo residents in the FCT and beyond.
“This is about safety, dignity, and fairness,” the statement added. “We want our lawmakers to prove they are working for their people, not just occupying seats.”
The association reaffirmed the group’s commitment to advocating for Igbo interests nationwide and in the diaspora.
“Our vision is the rebirth of the Igbo Renaissance — a future where Igbo people thrive, contribute meaningfully, and lead with dignity in Nigeria and globally,” it noted.
The association said it is awaiting “urgent and concrete action” from the Federal Government and relevant authorities.