Uyo, Residents of Obio Etoi Village in Uyo Local Government Area, a host community to the prestigious Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, have sent an urgent plea to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, calling for immediate intervention to fix deplorable access roads around the stadium.
In an open appeal signed by a concerned indigene, Mrs. Mercy Anthony, the residents expressed concern over the state of the roads, which have remained abandoned since construction efforts halted in 2017. The roads, they noted, were made worse by the incomplete project, causing unprecedented hardship for residents and visitors alike.
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, fondly called the “Nest of Champions,” has brought pride to Akwa Ibom State, serving as home ground for the Super Eagles and hosting numerous international matches since its inauguration in 2014. However, the residents lamented that the poor state of access roads mars the beauty and functionality of the renowned sports facility, casting a negative shadow on the state’s tourism and development efforts.
“Calls for intervention attracted the attention of the immediate past administration, which began construction in 2017. Unfortunately, the project was abandoned shortly after commencement, leaving residents to endure severe difficulties, especially during state events or matches,” the letter read.
The residents are appealing to Governor Umo Eno, whom they described as a “listening governor,” to revisit the project and direct its completion before the rainy season sets in. They believe that completing the roads will not only ease their suffering but also enhance the state’s reputation as a destination for sports and tourism.
The people of Obio Etoi remain hopeful for prompt intervention from the state government to address this long-standing issue.
