By DAYO ADESULU
Lawmakers Call for Urgent Attention from Government
The Lagos State House of Assembly has issued a strong appeal for the government to prioritize the repair of numerous neglected roads that have been causing distress among residents.
During a recent session led by Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, the lawmakers specifically highlighted the neglected Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road located in the Igbogbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA). They urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to instruct the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to ensure that HITECH Construction Company recommences work on the road.
A Plan for Completion and Security
The Assembly emphasized the need for relevant agencies to formulate a solid plan for completing the stalled project, while also implementing adequate security measures to protect the residents in the affected area.
As part of the resolution, lawmakers proposed that contractors be granted an upfront payment of 60 to 70 percent to expedite the completion of such projects.
Compiling Lists of Neglected Roads
Speaker Meranda directed all lawmakers to gather and submit lists of abandoned roads within their constituencies to the appropriate ministry for immediate action. This resolution followed an urgent public matter raised by Hon. Aro Moshood, who expressed concern over the hardships faced by residents in Ikorodu due to the neglected road.
“This road has been in terrible condition since 2017. What was intended to provide relief has unfortunately turned into a source of distress, leading to serious security and economic issues,” Moshood stated.
Rising Concerns Over Safety
Highlighting the road’s dire state, Moshood pointed out the significant increase in criminal activities, including kidnappings and accidents, linked to its poor condition.
Hon. Abiodun Ogunleye added his voice to the discussion, stressing the road’s strategic importance and its potential to enhance economic activities in the region.
Hon. Lukmon Sa’ad Olumoh expressed frustration over the extended delay in the road’s completion, mentioning that the Assembly had previously approved funding for the project.
“It is disheartening that a project has been left unfinished for over seven years. Last year, when we inspected ongoing road projects, contractors cited fluctuating exchange rates as a major obstacle,” Olumoh remarked. He suggested inviting the contractor responsible for the project to clarify whether they had received the funds allocated by the Assembly.
Demand for Accountability
Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Sanni Ganiyu Okanlawon, called for decisive government action, insisting that the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure and the contractors be summoned to explain the delays.
“This matter of abandoned road projects should not be taken lightly. I urge this House to summon the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure alongside the contractors to account for the stalled projects,” he stated.
Hon. Tobun Abiodun proposed creating legislation that would require future administrations to complete projects initiated by their predecessors, aiming to prevent situations involving unfinished projects.
A Statewide Crisis
Deputy Majority Leader Adedamola Richard Kasunmu pointed out that the issue extends beyond Ikorodu, affecting various parts of the state. “This is not just an Ikorodu problem; it is a statewide issue. We must call upon all relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, to explain the status of these abandoned roads,” he said.
After thorough discussions, the Assembly reached a consensus to summon the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure and the contractors involved to provide a comprehensive report on the status of abandoned road projects in Lagos State.
