The dilapidated state of federal roads connecting Osun and Ondo states has become a source of immense hardship for commuters and residents, sparking urgent calls for government intervention. The Ilesa-Akure Expressway, particularly the Osu/Iwaraja corridor, has deteriorated to a point where it poses a significant danger to motorists. Residents describe the road as a nightmare, riddled with potholes and craters that make navigation treacherous. While the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has attempted to address the issue with patchwork repairs, these efforts have proven insufficient, providing only temporary respite before the road deteriorates once more. The recurring damage necessitates a complete overhaul, involving the removal and replacement of the existing asphalt. The severity of the situation is underscored by the numerous accidents recorded on this stretch of the highway, particularly between Iloko Junction and the Road Safety office, between March and June of this year. This precarious state not only endangers lives but also disrupts the smooth flow of traffic and economic activities between the two states.
Long-time users of the Ilesa-Akure Expressway recount a history of neglect, pointing out that the last major reconstruction took place before the 2015 elections. While some expansion work is currently underway from Ilekki, Ilesa, it is deemed inadequate to address the magnitude of the problem. Even the commendable efforts of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officers, who filled some of the worst-affected portions to prevent accidents, are recognized as a temporary fix. What is desperately needed is a comprehensive rehabilitation of the entire road, not just superficial patches that quickly succumb to wear and tear. The deplorable condition of the road, forcing vehicles to slow down, also creates opportunities for criminal activities such as robbery and kidnapping, further exacerbating the risks faced by travelers.
While the Osun State government has stepped in to assist with repairs on some federal roads within its jurisdiction, it emphasizes that the primary responsibility lies with the federal government. The state’s Commissioner for Information has called upon the federal authorities to fulfill their obligation and address the urgent need for a complete reconstruction of the Ilesa-Akure Expressway. This plea reflects the shared sentiment of the affected communities, who bear the brunt of the road’s deplorable condition. They urgently require a safe and reliable transportation route to connect their communities and facilitate economic activities.
Similar concerns echo along the Akure-Ado Ekiti Expressway in Ondo State, where residents and commuters alike grapple with the protracted reconstruction project. Initiated during the previous administration, the project has been plagued by delays, exacerbating the already challenging conditions. The road, once a death trap notorious for kidnappings, has become a symbol of frustration for those relying on it for daily commutes and business activities. The slow pace of work has worsened traffic congestion, adding to the economic burden and inconvenience faced by residents. The rainy season further complicates the situation, making travel even more arduous and increasing the risk of accidents.
The recent announcement by the Minister of Works, outlining plans to redesign and rebuild the Akure-Ita-Ogbolu-Iju-Ado road with concrete, offers a glimmer of hope. However, residents remain apprehensive about the prolonged timeline, emphasizing the urgent need to expedite the project and alleviate their suffering. The impact of the road’s poor condition is deeply felt within the affected communities, disrupting daily life and hindering economic progress. The arduous journeys, coupled with increased vehicle maintenance costs, underscore the economic toll of the delayed reconstruction.
The Akure-Ado Ekiti Expressway plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce between Ondo and Ekiti states. The prolonged disruption to this vital artery has a ripple effect on the region’s economic activities. Transporters highlight the exorbitant costs incurred on vehicle repairs due to the road’s damaged state, emphasizing the urgency of completing the reconstruction to restore the smooth flow of goods and services. While the Ondo State government acknowledges the federal government’s responsibility for the road, it expresses optimism that the cessation of the rainy season will pave the way for accelerated progress. This hope is shared by the affected communities, who eagerly anticipate a resolution to their transportation woes and a return to normalcy.
