…A word of commendation
Driving through Ughelli Main Market a few days ago caught my eye in the best way as from Okorodafe Junction to Adagharagba Junction and beyond, the roads felt wide open like it used to be in years past.
Vehicles parked easily, and market women and other traders who once clogged walkways and spilled onto the road were still selling, but the astonishing thing was that they have stayed out of the roads and part of the walkways even when no enforcement officers or task force was on sight at that moment, but yet everyone seems to be in compliance.
My friend and I, who were at the market for some items, couldn’t believe the clearance as before, one would circle the market for over five times without finding a spot and to dodge the hassle, vehicle owners have to parked far off begining from the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church and hopped on bikes or keke just to access the market.
Those period, one thing that scares anyone who cares was the fear of heavy duty vehicles such as fuel tankers, trailers and lorries that also ply the market route. Stubborn traders who ignored past administrations’ pleas, directives and instructions became worrisome as experts in road mishaps often pray against occurrences. Often time, dialogue and enforcement fell flat, but the current Ughelli North LGA Chairman, Olorogun Jaro Egbo with his intervention is delivering real change.
Nigerians often shrug off laws, even when leaders are watching. But here, without Egbo present, traders who’ve resisted for years are following his directive to stay inside the market bounds. This voluntary shift transforms public spaces into a model for accountable local governance. It shows Egbo has a unique touch for enforcement that earns respect. This deserves celebration. As humans, we must praise what’s good while critiquing the rest. Hon. Jaro Egbo has shone here and merits commendation. Yet grey areas demand attention, like Ughelli town pitiable roads.
The road that lead to the local government headquarters cries for repairs. Olotu Street leading there, and the stretch from Ughelli High Court through Post Office Road all begging for repairs. It’s a daily lamentation for drivers and commuters. Compared to other LGAs, little has changed despite proximity to power. It is a strong appeal that Hon. Jaro Egbo, prioritize what serves the masses most especially the common man. Roads, electricity, schools, and healthcare should be looked into. I know you’ve built a cottage hospital lately and started a new secretariat building project, but roads underpin every success.
Lastly, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, your legacy blooms in these reclaimed roads and inspired compliance. I will say it is a beacon of visionary leadership that will echo through Ughelli North if only you can or will keep the law to become a norm.