As Gridlock May Return To Otovwodo Junction Soon
The matching order recently given by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to clear off all perceived obstacles and obstructions causing traffic jam around the Otovowodo junction of the East West road, may have been flouted as some touts that claim to be taskforce are allegedly collecting N1,000 from traders their businesses along the road.
It could be recalled that before the governors order, motorists and travellers using the East-West road, spend several hours at the Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli daily as a result of market women activities which affects free flow of traffic. But for about a month or more after order, the whole area was cleared as traffic flowed freely without delay. An action which was applauded by motorists and travelers using the route.
“You can see the beauty of this place now. If I am coming from Asaba before now, once am close to this junction, I will be praying not to meet heavy traffic, but since the governor came and ordered the removal of all businesses from the road, there is a sigh of relief”, a commercial driver noted.
However, there are indications that the governor’s order is presently been flouted as trading activities is gradually resuming on the road.
This may not be unconnected to the irresponsible attitudes of those saddled with the enforcement of the order who are alleged to be collecting N1,000 bribe from market women who are desperate and eager to return to the roadside, thereby violating the order of the governor.
Sources at the Otovwodo market and the junction area disclosed that, the taskforce after collecting One Thousand naira bribe, turned their faces to the activities of traders who prefer trading by the road.
If not checked immediately, Otovwodo Junction may return to its old days when travellers and motorists spend hours in gridlock.
A call put across to the local government chairman, Godwin Adode, by this medium to acquaint him of our findings prove abortive as he did not respond to his calls.