Sapele, Delta State – Residents of Gana, Ugberikoko, and Oton communities in Sapele have announced plans to stage a peaceful protest on August 28, 2025, to draw attention to the dire state of their access roads. Frustrated by years of neglect, the community members are demanding immediate action to rehabilitate the roads, which have become nearly impassable, particularly during the rainy season.
The road conditions have been described as critical for commerce, education, and healthcare, yet they remain riddled with deep potholes and erosion. Community leaders have accused SEPLAT Energy, a major oil and gas company, of exacerbating the situation by frequently using heavy-duty vehicles without contributing to road maintenance. Residents are also calling out local government officials for their inaction despite repeated appeals for assistance.
While Sapele Local Government Chairman, Hon. Bright Abeke, has initiated some remedial work, community members argue that these measures are insufficient. “The use of stones on certain sections is a temporary fix that washes away with heavy rains,” one resident pointed out, highlighting the ongoing structural issues that remain unaddressed.
The protest is being organized with legal backing, as notification letters have been sent to relevant authorities, including the Delta State Police Command and SEPLAT Energy. Protest organizers have emphasized that their intent is to remain peaceful and lawful, while their demands include full reconstruction of the Gana-Ugberikoko road and accountability from SEPLAT for the damage caused.
In addition to improvements in road conditions, residents are advocating for the inclusion of these roads in the state’s capital infrastructure budget, the engagement of qualified contractors, and the establishment of a regular maintenance plan. “This is not just about roads; it’s about our right to live in a functional society,” one protest organizer stated, emphasizing the broader implications of their struggle for justice and dignity.
