By Olayinka Iroye
I wish to express my profound appreciation to the Kwara State Government and the Federal Government for the construction of the Eiyenkorin-Afon-Ojoku- Offa road. This project, which is being executed by BUA Cement and contracted to Kunming Engineering Company, commenced in August 2024.
While road users and residents along this axis were initially optimistic that the construction would bring much-needed relief from years of hardship caused by the poor state of the road, the situation has unfortunately taken a troubling turn. Instead of being a source of progress, the road has now become a major source of distress, posing severe challenges to daily commuters, residents, and business owners alike.
The road, in its current condition, has created severe health hazards, particularly due to excessive dust. This has significantly impacted thousands of people, including; Staff and students of The Federal Polytechnic Offa, Officers of the Nigeria Police Force (Divisional Headquarters), Personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Staff and students of the Kwara State College of Health Technology, Other government agencies, private businesses, and local residents.
Many individuals who cannot withstand the harsh conditions have either abandoned their businesses or relocated from the area. The dust pollution is particularly harmful to individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma, and many have been hospitalized due to its effects.
To curb excessive speeding and minimize dust, 21 speed bumps/ brakers were installed along the road. However, this has not prevented frequent accidents, making the road a daily accident-prone zone. Though there have been injuries and hospitalizations, we thankfully have not recorded any fatalities.
Given the level of commitment and pace of work initially observed, many expected the project to be nearing completion by now. However, to the dismay of all, construction work stalled in November 2024, and workers vacated the site. It was later gathered that they had gone on a Christmas and New Year break. Unfortunately, as we enter the second month of 2025, they are yet to return. Though there are unverified reports that work is ongoing at the Ojoku-Afon axis, but there is no visible activity on the Offa section of the road. This delay has dashed the hopes of residents who had initially welcomed the project with great enthusiasm.
I humbly appeal to all relevant government agencies, supervising bodies, and stakeholders involved in this project to take immediate action by ensuring the swift return of construction workers to the site so that the road can be completed within the stipulated time. Government should also hold the construction company accountable for any lapses or unnecessary delays in the project.
Meanwhile, the construction company, should as a matter of urgency implement dust control measures by ensuring that the road is ‘watered’ daily, especially from General Hospital Offa to the Main Campus of The Federal Polytechnic Offa.
The construction firm, Kunming Engineering, should prioritize the most densely populated areas when carrying out asphalt or concrete laying. Specifically, they should commence work from the General Hospital, Offa, and proceed towards The Federal Polytechnic, Offa. This section of the road has the highest concentration of residents, businesses, and essential institutions, making it the most critical for immediate intervention.
By adopting this approach, the project will deliver the greatest benefit to the highest number of road users, ensuring that those most affected by the poor road conditions receive prompt relief. Addressing this stretch first will also enhance accessibility to key facilities, improve traffic flow, and boost economic activities in the area. As the work progresses towards the Keriaje axis, where population density gradually decreases, a phased execution will allow for better resource allocation and maximum impact.
I urge Kunming Engineering to take this strategic approach to ensure that the road construction delivers the most immediate and lasting benefits to the communities.
This project is of immense importance to the people of Offa, Ojoku, and Kwara State generally. It must not be left abandoned or prolonged unnecessarily, as the ongoing suffering and economic disruptions are becoming unbearable.
The government, the contracting firm, and all supervising agencies should please rise to the occasion and fulfill their responsibilities to the people.
A stitch in time saves nine.