The ongoing road construction project in Ewatto, which should have been a symbol of development and progress, is unfortunately becoming a source of serious concern for the people of Ewatto Kingdom. Rather than bringing relief, the project is beginning to create conditions that could lead to severe environmental and infrastructural damage if urgent corrective measures are not taken.
Roads have previously been constructed from Idumu Iyase Junction into Ewatto and from Abhuru into the community. Despite those projects, we never experienced the level of erosion and destruction that is now emerging along the current construction.
If the contractor handling this project is not called upon to immediately reassess the construction methods and implement proper erosion-control measures, this could mark the beginning of widespread erosion that may eventually threaten homes, farmlands, and other properties within our community.
I have also seen videos of concerned residents attempting to advise the contractor’s representatives on what should be done to address the erosion problem. While I commend our people for speaking out, it is important to state that it is not the responsibility of the community to design or supervise a road project. That responsibility rests squarely with the contractor and the relevant government authorities. Their duty is simple: identify the problem and fix it before it becomes a disaster.
One of the most troubling aspects of this project is the apparent absence of an adequate drainage system. Road construction without proper drainage is a recipe for erosion, especially during the rainy season. Proper drainage is not an optional feature—it is a fundamental component of every well-engineered road project.
I therefore call on the appropriate government agencies to urgently inspect this project and direct the contractor to reassess the ongoing work and immediately put in place effective drainage and erosion-control measures. Preventing a disaster today is far less costly than attempting to repair one tomorrow.
Development should improve the lives of the people, not expose them to avoidable risks. The time to act is now, before it is too late.
Comrade Amos Uwamusi is a resident from Ewatto Community in Esan South-East LGA.