By Archie Boan
Residents of Montserrado County’s District 12 are expressing growing frustration over what they described as persistent neglect, environmental pollution, and unfulfilled development commitments by their elected Representative, Hon. Jerry K. Yorgbor Sr.
From deteriorating and impassable roads to air pollution allegedly linked to industrial operations, community members say living conditions across the district have worsened despite repeated assurances of progress, empowerment, and infrastructure improvement.
Crumbling Roads Leave Communities Isolated
Across several communities in District #12, residents report that roads have become nearly impassable, particularly during the rainy season. Blocked and damaged roadways, they say, have disrupted daily life, increased transportation costs, and isolated neighborhoods from essential public services.
“Our roads are no longer pathways of progress; they are symbols of neglect. People struggle just to move from one place to another, and entire communities are being cut off,” said Gabriel T. B. Davies, a community advocate.
Health Concerns Mount Over Industrial Pollution
One of the most pressing concerns centers on persistent smoke emissions allegedly originating from the Sette Company, which residents say have polluted the air in nearby communities-especially the Chicken Factory community, the most populous area in the district.
Residents report that the smoke has become a constant presence, fueling fears of respiratory illnesses and long-term health effects.
“The air we breathe is poisoned. In the Chicken Factory community, people wake up and go to sleep with smoke in their lungs. This is not just discomfort-it is a public health crisis,” Davies asserted.
Promises to Youth and Women Remain Unfulfilled
Davies, among other things also pointed to what he described as broken promises to empower youth and women, as well as to construct a modern market hall to boost local commerce and livelihoods.
“These commitments were made openly to the people. Today, they exist only in speeches. There are no market hall, no empowerment programs, and no sustainable opportunities for our people,” he noted.
Allegations of Misplaced Priorities
He further accused the district’s lawmaker of prioritizing private interests over public service.
According to him, instead of holding companies accountable to community and environmental standards, the representative has allegedly benefited from their continued operations.
“Our representative has turned his back on the people. He collects from companies like Sithe feral fabric while the people suffer. That is not representation-that is betrayal,” he indicated.
As frustration intensifies, residents are calling for accountability, stronger environmental oversight, and visible development action. Community members say they want answers from both their elected representative and relevant government agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ministry of Public Works.
Repeated attempts to obtain a response from Hon. Jerry K. Yorgbor Sr. were unsuccessful as of press time.
For many residents, the sense of disappointment goes beyond damaged roads and polluted air.
“Every pledge has proven to be a lie. District 12 has been left behind, while promises fade into dusty, polluted air,” noted.
