Abeokuta-based politician and Convener of the United Premier Movement, Hon. Olalekan A. Shoyinka, has commended the Ogun State Government for the ongoing rehabilitation of inner-city roads, while cautioning that poor supervision and substandard execution could undermine the benefits of the projects.
In a statement titled “When Governance Shows Up on the Road: A Call for Consistency and Quality in Ogun’s Road Maintenance,” Shoyinka described the sight of officials from the Ogun State Public Works Agency repairing roads across Abeokuta as a positive signal that governance was beginning to address residents’ everyday challenges.
He singled out the Nawair-Ur-Deen–Isabo axis, extending toward NEPA Road in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, for special commendation, noting that the road had long posed difficulties for motorists, commercial drivers, traders, and residents, particularly during the Kuto Five-Day Market.
Shoyinka praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for allocating funds for road rehabilitation, highlighting road maintenance as one of the most visible ways government connects with the people.
He also acknowledged works along the Adatan routes toward Isale-Ake and the Ake Palace axis, emphasizing that timely maintenance is critical for urban life and economic activity.
However, the UPM convener raised concerns over recurring failed repairs on some roads, particularly the Lafenwa–Brewery axis in Abeokuta North, which has reportedly required repairs at least three times since October last year, with each intervention failing within months.
He questioned whether these failures stemmed from poor understanding of soil conditions, use of substandard materials, or lack of effective supervision, warning that repeated but ineffective repairs amount to waste of public funds.
Shoyinka also highlighted sections of MKO Abiola Way, where recently rehabilitated areas are already cracking, calling for urgent technical reassessment.
Describing the ongoing projects as a “Christmas gift” to Egbaland, Shoyinka urged the governor to deploy independent technical monitoring teams to oversee sensitive projects and ensure compliance with standards.
He further called on the Ministry of Works, commissioners, permanent secretaries, and directors to intensify field supervision, stressing that the governor could not personally monitor all projects.
Shoyinka also appealed to the House of Assembly Committee on Works to play a more active oversight role, ensuring transparency and value for money in road maintenance contracts.
He concluded that while the ongoing road repairs deserve commendation, only consistency, quality, and accountability would ensure that development is truly felt by the people of Ogun State.
