A youth group, Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN), has called on Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa to at first conclude the abandoned Ijoka/Akure road before jumping to Akure/Idanre Road dualisation.
The group, according to a statement signed by
Oluwafemi Oluwatobi David, its Akure South Local Government Coordinator, was of the opinion that the inhabitants of Idanre and Akure are also beneficiaries of the Ijoka road which is sliding into an impassable road in the light of the heavy downpour of rain in the area.
The statement titled, “A Humble Appeal to Governor Aiyedatiwa: Ijoka Road Should Not Be Forgotten,
reads:
“The Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN), Akure South LGA, respectfully extends warm regards to His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and commends the government’s visible strides in infrastructure, youth engagement, and continuity of governance. Indeed, the renewed commitment to completing ongoing projects across the state is a reassuring promise that resonates with the people.”
“However, we feel a moral obligation to draw attention to the current state of the Ijoka Road, particularly from the Ijo Mimo axis downwards, which appears to have been abandoned midway. The road, now visibly worsening with the onset of the rainy season, poses serious mobility and safety concerns for residents, businesses, students, and commuters who rely heavily on it.”
The group did a flashback to capture the feelings of the people of the area upon the commencement of the project.
“Construction began with hope. At the time, it gave Ijoka residents a sense of belonging and optimism. However, since the disappearance of the contractors, all visible work has stalled. The project is reportedly at least 60% complete, yet what remains undone is already becoming impassable. Erosion, flooding, and uneven surfaces are returning to undo the little progress made.”
“We understand and appreciate the proposal to dualize the Akure-Idanre Road. It is a welcome development that would improve regional connectivity. Still, we respectfully suggest that the ongoing Ijoka Road project be seen through to completion before new major projects commence.”
“It is only logical — and fair — that we finish one before beginning another. After all, residents of Idanre also make use of Ijoka Road when coming into Akure, so its completion benefits all.”
“Ijoka is home to thousands of law-abiding citizens, hardworking traders, families, and vibrant young people. We are not asking for anything new — only that what has already started be completed. It is in the spirit of shared development and equity that we tender this heartfelt plea.”
It concluded, saying:
“We remain confident that under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership — a leadership that listens to people — this concern will be urgently reviewed. Let us not allow Ijoka Road to become a symbol of abandoned hope. Let it instead be remembered as one of the success stories in the administration’s journey of finishing well.”
