By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
A controversy has erupted in Abia State following allegations that the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Chief Dr. Math Chikodi Ekwuribe, threatened a journalist over a report highlighting the deplorable condition of roads in Avor Umuerim community in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area.
The journalist, Chief Ben Ngwakwe, alleged that the commissioner issued verbal threats during a telephone conversation on Thursday concerning a recent publication detailing the poor state of roads linking to Avor Umuerim, despite ongoing claims of infrastructural development under the administration of Governor Alex Otti.
According to the journalist, the commissioner, who reportedly spoke from Avor Umuerim during the phone call, expressed anger over the publication and allegedly warned that local youths could confront the reporter whenever he visits the community.
The report on the road conditions had featured photographs showing failed portions of the road and difficulties faced by residents and commuters accessing the community, especially during the rainy season.
Reacting to the publication, the commissioner reportedly explained that the road project had already been awarded in January 2026 but suffered delays due to funding and contractor mobilization challenges.
He was also quoted as saying that efforts were ongoing within government circles to secure funds for the continuation of the project.
The commissioner further argued that the road deterioration predated the current administration and questioned why the report portrayed the project as abandoned.
Residents and indigenes of Avor Umuerim who reacted to the development expressed mixed feelings over the slow pace of work on the road project.
Some community members acknowledged that construction work had commenced earlier in the year but lamented that the condition of the road had worsened after the project stalled.
One resident stated that motorists and commercial motorcycle operators now avoid the route during rainfall due to its poor condition, while others appealed to the state government to urgently remobilize contractors to site.
Another indigene based in the United Kingdom said he was initially impressed when he visited the community in January and saw ongoing construction but was disappointed that the work had not been completed months later.
Community members also commended media attention on the issue, describing it as a patriotic effort aimed at drawing government attention to the plight of residents.
The development has sparked discussions among residents and stakeholders over freedom of expression, public accountability, and the responsibility of public office holders to respond constructively to criticism regarding infrastructure and governance.
Chief Ben Ngwakwe is a political analyst and is Journalist based in Gombe.