An expression of concern has been made by the Njiko Igbo Forum (NIF), a part of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, regarding the prolonged delay in the Eastern Corridor railways project spanning from Port Harcourt to Enugu. The group highlighted the slow progress of work between Aba and Umuahia.
In a statement released by the President of the Forum, Rev. Okechukwu Christopher Obioha (JP), it was emphasized that while other regions in Nigeria are benefiting from rail services, the Igbo community in the Southeast is being neglected, suggesting a lack of inclusivity.
The Forum called upon President Bola Tinubu and political figures from the Southeast, such as Governors, Senators, and House of Representatives members, to conduct a thorough investigation, oversee the project, and ensure seamless train operations from Port Harcourt to Enugu before December 2024.
Emphasizing the significance of the project in enhancing the lives of the populace and facilitating business activities, Obioha remarked on the hardships faced by Southeast residents due to the elimination of oil subsidies and the escalation of electricity tariffs.
Part of the communique from the Forum stated: “The slow pace of work from Aba to Umuahia is a critical issue affecting our community and the business environment, particularly in light of the current high transportation costs.”
“Njiko Igbo Forum (NIF), as a dedicated affiliate of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, implores the leadership of the country, Southeast Governors, Senators, House of Representatives members, notably Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and State Assemblies with their Speakers, to promptly investigate and ensure seamless train services between Port Harcourt and Enugu by December 2024.”
“The continued exclusion of Southeast Igbo from essential services like rail transport demonstrates a concerning lack of inclusion and recognition as part of the nation,” the group further conveyed.