By Paul Chimodo
In a stark reminder of the neglect and underdevelopment plaguing some local government areas of Rivers State, the community of Ala-Oma in Etche local government area has been left to grapple with the absence of essential government services. Despite its rich natural resources, including oil wells that contribute to the nation’s economy, Ala-Oma residents have been left to suffer in dire conditions.
An investigative visit by our reporter revealed a community struggling with deteriorating health facilities, inadequate schools, limited market access, and the absence of proper road infrastructure. The community’s reliance on agricultural produce for sustenance has been severely hampered by the lack of access routes, leading to life-threatening incidents, particularly while crossing the Ala-Oma River to reach Umuebulu community for schooling.
Residents highlighted the absence of educational facilities and the dilapidated state of the health facility as major challenges facing the community. The lack of electricity has also been a persistent issue, with Prince Emmanuel Njoku, the community’s Chairman and stakeholder, appealing to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for the urgent construction of a one-kilometer mini bridge connecting Umuebulu 1 to Ala-Oma community.
A local businessman, Jude Okere, who specializes in purchasing agricultural produce from Ala-Oma, shared his experiences and shed light on the community’s economic struggles. “It is a challenging environment to operate in,” he said. “The lack of infrastructure and amenities makes it difficult for us to do business and provide for our families.”
The paramount ruler of Umuebulu, His Royal Majesty Eze James Nwagwu, expressed concern over the neglect of Ala-Oma by multinationals, the NDDC, and the state government. “We urge the Rivers State Government to provide essential amenities for Ala-Oma,” he said. “Accessible roads would pave the way for more profound development.”
As the community calls for intervention from the state government, the NDDC, and multinationals, it is anticipated that the relevant authorities will respond promptly to provide the fundamental amenities owed to the people of Ala-Oma. The situation highlights the need for effective governance and accountability in ensuring that all communities in Rivers State are provided with basic amenities and services.
