In the Bomadi local government area of Delta State, the youths of Akugbene community took to the streets on Monday to stage a peaceful protest. Their grievance stemmed from the alleged cancellation of the contract for the State-owned Model Technical College project in their community. This project, which had been a beacon of hope for many, now seemed to be in jeopardy, causing significant unrest among the local youth.
Social Media Uproar
The protest was fueled by a news report that had been circulating widely on social media the previous day. The report, titled “Delta State Gov Sheriff Cancelled Akugbene Technical College, Queries the Award,” suggested that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had decided to cancel the project. This news did not sit well with the community members, especially the youths, who felt that the governor should be working towards the completion of the project rather than its cancellation.
Youth Leaders Speak Out
Eparukumoh Edward Ebi’s Appeal
Eparukumoh Edward Ebi, a prominent youth leader in the community, voiced the collective concerns of the youths. He called on Governor Oborevwori to take immediate action by mobilizing the contracting firm, Wanna Enterprises Nigeria, which had abandoned the project site. Ebi emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “We understand that former governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa awarded eight technical colleges across the state during his tenure. To fulfill his campaign promises to the people of Akugbene community, the then governor sited one of the eight approved technical colleges in Akugbene community.”
Ebi further elaborated on the situation, explaining that the project had initially been progressing well. However, at some point, the contractor disappeared from the site, leaving the project incomplete. “The job was actually ongoing but after some time nobody understood what was happening, as the contractor was no longer seen on site. As I speak with you, the site is covered with weeds,” he lamented.
The youth leader expressed his frustration and disappointment, stating that the community had tried to gather information about the project’s status. According to their findings, the current governor seemed disinterested in funding the project, or worse, had canceled it altogether. This revelation had sparked the protest, as the youths felt betrayed by the government they had supported.
“We are appalled that despite the love and support the leaders of Akugbene community give to the Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori-led government, it’s unfortunate to hear that the governor is not willing to continue with the project in our community,” Ebi said. He made a heartfelt appeal to the governor, urging him to mobilize the contractor to return to the site and complete the project if the rumors of cancellation were untrue. “You know, the aim of this school is to equip the rural populace with practical skills through technical trainings to boost the local industry,” he added.
Comrade Kelly Gillor’s Remarks
Another youth leader, Comrade Kelly Gillor, also shared his thoughts on the matter. He described the project as a long-standing nightmare for the entire community due to its apparent abandonment by the contractor. “This project has become a nightmare to the entire community. We appeal to the governor to complete it as there is no single higher institution in Bomadi/Patani Federal Constituency,” Gillor stated.
He highlighted the strategic importance of the Bomadi local government area, noting that it connects several other local government areas, including Burutu, Patani, and Ughelli South, as well as Bayelsa State. The completion of the technical college would not only benefit Akugbene community but also the surrounding areas, providing much-needed educational opportunities and fostering local development.
The Importance of the Technical College Project
The State-owned Model Technical College project in Akugbene community was one of eight technical colleges approved by former governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa. These colleges were part of a broader initiative to enhance technical education across Delta State. The aim was to equip the rural populace with practical skills through technical training, thereby boosting local industries and creating job opportunities.
For the people of Akugbene community, the technical college represented a significant step towards achieving these goals. It was seen as a means to empower the youth, reduce unemployment, and stimulate economic growth in the area. The project’s cancellation, therefore, was a major setback, dashing the hopes and aspirations of many community members.
The Call for Action
The peaceful protest by the youths of Akugbene community was a clear message to the state government. They were not willing to accept the cancellation of the technical college project without a fight. Their demands were simple and straightforward: they wanted the project to be completed as promised.
The youth leaders, Eparukumoh Edward Ebi and Comrade Kelly Gillor, made passionate appeals to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. They urged him to reconsider the decision to cancel the project and to take immediate steps to ensure its completion. They called on the governor to mobilize the contractor, Wanna Enterprises Nigeria, to return to the site and finish the job.
The Broader Implications
The situation in Akugbene community highlights a broader issue that affects many rural areas in Nigeria. The lack of infrastructure and educational facilities in these areas often hampers development and limits opportunities for the youth. Projects like the State-owned Model Technical College are crucial for addressing these challenges and promoting sustainable development.
The protest by the youths of Akugbene community serves as a reminder of the importance of government accountability and the need for continuous engagement with local communities. It underscores the fact that development projects should not be abandoned halfway, as doing so can have far-reaching negative impacts on the affected communities.
Conclusion
The peaceful protest by the youths of Akugbene community over the purported cancellation of the State-owned Model Technical College project is a testament to their determination and resilience. They are fighting for a project that holds the promise of a better future for their community. Their appeals to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reflect their hope that the government will listen to their concerns and take the necessary steps to complete the project.
The situation calls for urgent action from the state government. It is imperative that the governor addresses the concerns of the Akugbene community and ensures that the technical college project is completed. Doing so will not only fulfill the campaign promises made by the previous administration but also contribute to the overall development of the Bomadi local government area and its surrounding regions.
In the end, the completion of the State-owned Model Technical College in Akugbene community will stand as a symbol of the government’s commitment to education, development, and the well-being of its people. It will demonstrate that the voices of the youth and the community are heard and valued, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
