Residents and commuters along the Mowe-Ofada Road in Ogun State are expressing their frustrations over the poor condition of the road, which has been left in disrepair for over eight years. The situation has led to significant increases in transportation fares and disruptions to local businesses, as vehicles are now forced to navigate the damaged sections of the road with caution.

During a recent visit by PUNCH Metro correspondents, it was observed that many drivers are avoiding the affected areas altogether, opting instead to use one side of the dual carriageway as a makeshift one-way route. The road project, which was initiated years ago, saw only one side completed, leaving the other side in a state of neglect.

A tricycle rider, known as Amadu, shared his experience, stating, "We are plying the road with joy, but it is painful for us. Whenever we enter that road, the money we spend on tricycle maintenance is excessive." He further lamented that the road had not seen any improvements since its partial completion.

Business owners in the area have also voiced their concerns. One businessman, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that offers from private individuals willing to construct the road have been rejected by local government officials. He explained, "At times, there are business people who just opened a supermarket, filling station or school. They may volunteer to construct the road, but some elected officials in the local government will reject it and say so."

Another local entrepreneur, Mr. Tayo, highlighted the impact of the road’s condition on commerce, noting that flooding occurs whenever it rains, further complicating access for customers. He added, "The condition of the road also causes a hike in transportation fare."

Residents have also reported that heavy rains exacerbate the situation, rendering the road nearly impassable. A resident named Femi remarked, "Nobody plies this road again, and whenever heavy rain falls, this place becomes flooded."

Efforts to reach local government officials for comments on the ongoing situation have been unsuccessful. The local government chairman, Lanre Obafemi, could not be reached for a response, as calls went unanswered. Similarly, the special adviser to the governor on information and strategy, Kayode Akinmade, was unreachable at the time of reporting.

The deteriorating state of the Mowe-Ofada Road has become a pressing issue for the community, leading to prolonged delays, frequent vehicle breakdowns, and a growing burden on residents, workers, and business owners alike. As the situation continues to worsen, the need for urgent government intervention grows more critical.