Residents of Arogbo Kingdom in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State have petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the abandoned Agadagba-Obon to Arogbo bridge project, demanding an investigation into the handling of funds allocated for the project.
The petition, contained in an open letter addressed to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, accused the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of failing to explain why work stopped on the bridge after initial construction activities reportedly began more than a decade ago.
The letter, signed by Pharm. Allen S.E., described the project as a long-awaited intervention meant to address years of isolation and poor infrastructure affecting the riverine community.
According to the petitioner, the bridge project was approved between 2011 and 2015 and was welcomed by residents as a major development initiative expected to improve transportation and economic activities in the area.
He stated that the contract was reportedly awarded to Picolo Brunelli Engineering Limited, an Italian construction company, while preliminary works such as site clearing and demolition of affected structures were carried out before construction suddenly stopped.
The petition alleged that despite the passage of over 11 years, neither the NDDC nor the contractors involved had provided any clear explanation regarding the status of the project or the funds allegedly released for its execution.
Allen expressed concern that public funds may have been disbursed without corresponding work being completed, urging the anti-graft agency to investigate possible cases of diversion, fraud, or mismanagement.
He called on the EFCC to examine the contract approval process, payment records, and the circumstances surrounding the abandonment of the project.
“The people of Arogbo Kingdom deserve answers, transparency, and justice,” the letter stated, while urging authorities to hold accountable anyone found responsible for wrongdoing.
The abandoned bridge has remained a source of frustration for many residents who had hoped the project would improve movement, boost trade, and provide easier access to essential services within the riverine communities.
Community members said the project initially generated excitement because it was expected to reduce transportation difficulties and open up the area for economic growth after years of neglect.
The latest petition adds to growing concerns over abandoned projects linked to the NDDC across parts of the Niger Delta region, where several communities have repeatedly complained about incomplete infrastructure despite huge budget allocations.
As of Wednesday, there was no official response from the NDDC, the contractor mentioned in the petition, or the EFCC regarding the allegations and calls for investigation.
