Reps seek urgent FG intervention on deplorable Ogun road

The House of Representatives has called for urgent Federal Government intervention to address the deplorable condition of the Abeokuta-Rounda-Olorunda-Imeko Road in Ogun State, following reports that commuters have been stranded overnight along the route.

The call followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Adegboyega Isiaka, who represents Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency of Ogun State.

Isiaka expressed concern that the deteriorating condition of the road had made transportation increasingly difficult, exposing motorists, commercial drivers, passengers and other road users to significant risks.

He noted that the road serves as a critical transportation corridor for communities in Ogun State, facilitating the movement of people, agricultural produce, goods and services.

The lawmaker lamented that the poor state of the road had led to increased transport costs, prolonged travel times and severe economic losses for residents, farmers, transport operators and business owners along the corridor.

Of particular concern, he said, was the hardship commuters had endured over the past two weeks, with some reportedly forced to spend entire nights stranded on the road because of its impassable condition.

He warned that the situation exposed road users to serious security threats, avoidable dangers and possible criminal attacks.

Isiaka further cautioned that continued neglect of the road could heighten public frustration and tensions, potentially threatening law and order if urgent remedial measures were not taken.

He also warned that failure to address the deteriorating infrastructure promptly could worsen its condition, undermine road safety and commercial activities, and increase the eventual cost of rehabilitation.

Consequently, the motion urged the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), in line with their respective mandates, to urgently inspect and assess the road and identify sections requiring immediate intervention.

The lawmakers also called on the Federal Government to undertake emergency palliative works on severely deteriorated sections of the road to restore basic motorability and reduce the risks faced by road users.

The motion further called for appropriate budgetary provisions and the timely release of funds, in accordance with applicable budgetary and procurement processes, to facilitate the necessary remedial works.

The proposed intervention is aimed at easing the hardship faced by commuters, improving the transportation of agricultural produce and other goods, and supporting economic activities in communities along the road corridor.

Isiaka stressed the need for timely intervention to prevent further deterioration of the road and address the difficulties confronting residents and other road users.