The deplorable state of Olokuta road in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has become a ticking time bomb, threatening the lives and livelihoods of residents and commuters. Despite repeated pleas and protests, the state government has failed to take decisive action, leaving the community in a state of despair.
The road, which serves as a critical link to the Wole Soyinka Train Station and over 40 communities, has been in a state of disrepair for nearly a decade. Successive governments have neglected this vital infrastructure, prioritizing political interests over the welfare of citizens.
Babatunde Folarin, Chairman of the Presidential Mandate Estate, expressed frustration and disappointment at the government’s inactive.
“We have lost count of the number of lives lost on this road. The government’s failure to act is a clear indication of their disregard for our well-being.
The consequences of this neglect are stark. Fatal accidents have become a regular occurrence, claiming lives and leaving families devastated. The road’s poor condition has also made it inaccessible, causing economic hardship for residents and business owners who rely on the road for their livelihoods.
“We are tired of promises, we want action. The government should come and see the suffering of our people, the road is a death trap,” said Mrs. Funmilayo Adeyemi, a resident of the area.
However, in a reaction, the Ogun State Government through the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr Ade Akinsanya, claimed that the government has already programmed the road for reconstruction and has allocated funds for the project in the 2024 budget. He stated that the government is committed to completing the project soon, but did not provide a specific timeline.
“The Olokuta road project is a priority for this administration, and we are working tirelessly to ensure its completion. We understand the suffering of the people and we are committed to putting an end to it,” said Engr Akinsanya.
While the government’s response has brought some hope to the community, residents remain skeptical, having heard similar promises before. They are demanding swift action and tangible results, not just promises, to address the dire situation.
