As reconstruction progresses on the Abeokuta–Ifo–Sango-Ota–Lagos expressway, motorists and residents have expressed delight at the pace and quality of work being delivered on the busy corridor.
Governor Dapo Abiodun flagged off the 18-month reconstruction project on August 23, 2024. Since then, five work gangs have been active at Olomore, Midgad/Metroxide, Papalanto Junction, Owode, and the Toll Gate axis. Earthworks, stone base, and drainage systems have been completed in those areas, with asphalt now being laid.
Failed sections at Brewery, Obada, and Itori Junction up to the Lafarge Cement Factory in Ewekoro have also been repaired and reopened to traffic.
The Olu of Itori, Oba Abdul Fatai Akorede Akamo, hailed the project as a turning point after years of neglect.
He said, “This road has been abandoned for so many years, and I thank God that Governor Dapo Abiodun took the bull by the horns and committed to fixing the Lagos–Ota–Abeokuta road.
“Though it is a federal road, our governor said he would complete it, and he has started. His word is his bond. Since my enthronement, I have never witnessed such a governor who says something and achieves it. The governor is a man of the people who feels the people’s pain — and with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he is delivering.”
Transporter Opeyemi Akindele, who plies the Abeokuta–Papalanto route, said the reconstruction has eased travel and reduced accidents.
“Before now, we were forced to drive one-way because the road was terrible. Some portions looked like swimming pools. Today, breakdowns are rare, accidents have reduced, and movement is smooth,” he said.
He, however, urged the government to establish a trailer park between Papalanto Junction and the Lafarge Cement Plant to prevent articulated vehicles from obstructing the road.
A Papalanto resident, Ololade Anjolaoluwa, recalled the traffic chaos before the intervention: “The road was very bad before now; traffic around here was huge. But now, we thank God that the Abiodun administration has come to our aid.”
Another resident, Akande Michael, praised the progress but appealed for timely delivery.
“There are a lot of changes already. Accidents have stopped happening, and the work from Itori to Papalanto is fantastic. We appreciate the governor’s effort.”
