Local News

Increase in cost of sand in Abraka: A call for reversal

Published

2 years ago

2025-01-18

Delta Observer News

18-01-2025.

The Executive Chairman,

Ethiope East Local Government Council,

Otorho Agbon,

Delta State.

Dear Sir,

Increase in cost of sand in Abraka: A call for reversal

I am writing to bring to your attention the alarming increase in the cost of sand in Abraka, which has risen from N32,000 to N45,000 per tipper trip. This “egborhan” increment, as described by landlords, is causing significant hardship and frustration among the residents.

Furthermore, the continuous increase in the cost of sand is having a ripple effect on the university community, particularly on rent prices. As landlords struggle to cope with the rising costs of building materials, they are passing on the burden to tenants, resulting in higher rent prices.

This trend is not only affecting the affordability of housing for students and staff but also undermining the overall quality of life in the university community. It is essential that the council takes a holistic approach to addressing this issue, considering the broader implications for the community.

I urge you to take immediate action to mitigate the effects of these increments and ensure that the university community remains an affordable and attractive place to live and work.

The questions on everyone’s mind are: what contributions are the sand dealers making to road repairs in Abraka? What financial contribution do the sand dealers make to the Council as tax annually? It is ironic that the town’s roads are in a deplorable state, with potholes and neglect evident everywhere. The condition of roads in Abraka is a stark contrast to the profits being made by the sand dealers.

Sir, as the chairman, it is imperative that you address this issue promptly and call the sand dealers to order. The people of Abraka are on the brink of taking to the streets in protest, and it is essential to prevent such a situation.

I urge you to take immediate action to investigate the sudden price hike, determine the reasons behind the increase and ensure that it is justified; regulate sand prices, implement measures to control the prices of sand and prevent exploitation; ensure contributions to road repairs, verify that sand dealers are contributing to road maintenance and repairs in Abraka.

The people of Abraka are counting on your prompt response and action to address this critical issue.

Sincerely,

Debishop,

Concerned Resident.