By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The ancient community of Ebu in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State has continued to lament what residents describe as decades of abandonment, neglect, and exclusion from meaningful government development projects.
Like a grieving mother, Ebu stands today asking painful questions: What offence has the community committed to deserve years of neglect? Why has a peaceful agrarian community that contributes immensely to food production in Delta North been left behind while other communities enjoy the dividends of democracy?
For many years, residents have watched successive administrations at both the federal and state levels roll out infrastructure projects across various communities, yet Ebu remains largely untouched by development. The community, renowned for its agricultural potential and hardworking people, continues to struggle with poor road networks, inadequate social amenities, and limited government presence.
Particularly troubling is the deplorable condition of the Ebu–Ezi–Ukala Road, the major gateway into the community.
Residents say the road has remained in a state of disrepair for nearly three decades, making transportation difficult and hindering economic activities.
During the rainy season, the road becomes almost impassable, forcing farmers and traders to endure hardship while transporting their produce to markets.
Community leaders and concerned citizens wonder why such a strategic road has been neglected for so long despite repeated appeals to relevant authorities. They argue that a community that serves as a food basket to Delta North deserves better treatment.
Beyond the road infrastructure, Ebu faces a shortage of other essential social amenities. Many residents believe the community has not received the level of attention accorded to neighboring towns, despite its strategic location as a border community between Delta and Edo States.
The growing frustration has given rise to questions about whether Ebu's lack of influential political voices has contributed to its plight. Many residents feel that the community has been overlooked because it lacks powerful advocates in positions of authority.
Yet amid the pain and disappointment, hope remains alive. The people of Ebu believe that their cries will not go unanswered forever. They remain optimistic that a day will come when government authorities will hear their voices and respond to their developmental needs.
Our people have suffered enough, a resident lamented. "We are not asking for special treatment; we are simply asking for fairness and inclusion. Ebu deserves roads, healthcare facilities, clean water, and other basic amenities like every other community."
As the cries of Mother Ebu continue to echo across Delta State, many observers say the time has come for deliberate government intervention to reverse years of neglect and restore hope to a community that has contributed significantly to the agricultural growth and economic sustenance of the region.
For now, Ebu waits, watches, and hopes that its long season of abandonment will soon give way to a new era of development and progress.