“Delta Communities Cry Out to Oborevwori: ‘Years of Neglect Have Cut Us Off From the World'”
By Passman Akpos
Residents of communities served by the Esanma–Gbaregolor Bridge have issued an open letter to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, urging his administration to urgently reconstruct the long-abandoned bridge, which they say has remained impassable for years.
In the letter signed by the Management, the communities described the deteriorating condition of the bridge as a major obstacle to development, stating that it has effectively cut off several communities and subjected residents to severe hardship.
According to the appeal, farmers, traders, students, healthcare workers and other residents face enormous difficulties transporting people and goods due to the collapsed state of the bridge. The communities noted that access to schools, healthcare facilities, markets and other essential services has become increasingly difficult, with serious social and economic consequences.
The letter stressed that the Esanma–Gbaregolor Bridge is more than just a transportation link, describing it as a vital lifeline for thousands of residents whose livelihoods depend on safe and reliable access to neighbouring communities.
The signatories acknowledged Governor Oborevwori’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development across Delta State and appealed for the same attention to be extended to the Esanma–Gbaregolor Bridge.
They argued that reconstructing the bridge would reconnect isolated communities, stimulate local economic activities, improve access to education and healthcare, and significantly enhance the quality of life for affected residents.
The communities further appealed to the governor’s administration to prioritise the project and ensure that reconstruction work begins without further delay, expressing confidence that prompt government intervention would restore hope and accelerate development in the area.
They concluded the letter by thanking Governor Oborevwori for considering their appeal and expressed optimism that the request would receive urgent attention.
