OGUN: Gov Dapo calls for patience amid criticisms of state’s road conditions

He made these remarks today following an on-the-spot evaluation of roads in Ifo Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

The governor emphasized the need for patience, stating, “I urge our citizens to bear with us. It is not feasible to completely overhaul all the deteriorated roads within a span of three years.

In reality, no administration, not even in eight years, can address all road infrastructure needs in Ogun State.”

He highlighted the challenges inherited upon assuming office in May 2019, expressing surprise at the previous administration’s approach to road projects.

Governor Abiodun highlighted instances where roads were expanded unnecessarily, leading to the removal of existing asphalt and subsequent neglect.

Acknowledging the confusion between federal and state roads among residents, he assured that his administration is committed to ensuring equitable distribution of road construction projects across the state.

The governor also pledged swift action on key road projects, including the Denro-Ishashi-Akute road, with a directive for completion within two weeks.

He expressed his dedication to fulfilling promises made to the electorate and announced upcoming construction activities on other vital roads in the region.

“My pledge is that I have come here today to see things for myself. Two roads are considerably important to our people.

“First of all, the Denro-Ishashi-Akute road, I have given the contractor a matching order that the road must be completed in the next two weeks, asphalt and the bridge.

I want to assure you all that it is your time now. It is your right. You voted for us. I am a promise-keeping governor. I will not make empty promises. Now, within the next two weeks, maximum of three weeks, active construction will start on Alagbole-Ajuwon and Akute-Ajuwon roads.

“Today, here, we’ve reconstructed Olusegun Osoba-Toyin Street, Denro-Ishashi-Akute is under construction. We have so many other roads we’ve constructed here. But because there is so much deficit in the infrastructural development in this area, at times, it appears as if we are not reconstructing them as fast as they want us to.

Addressing the need for improved healthcare infrastructure, Governor Abiodun promised the reconstruction of the Primary Health Care Centre in the area, underscoring his commitment to enhancing essential services for the community.

“The Primary Health Care Centre here, I will reconstruct it. I have told Hon. Fola Salami and the Commissioner (health) to look for a land for me here because I will build a new one for you. I want to build a brand new Primary Health Care Centre that is befitting for Ajuwon-Alagbole-Akute.”

The governor’s statements came in response to the online campaign #DapoFixOgunRoads, which gained traction on social media platforms, drawing attention to the poor state of roads in Ogun State through shared videos and images depicting various road hazards.