Traditional rulers in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State have appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to fast-track the rehabilitation of the Idi Igba-Akinmorin Road, describing its current condition as a danger to motorists and a setback to economic activities in the area.
The appeal was made after a meeting of the Afijio Traditional Council, where the royal fathers commended the Makinde administration for its developmental strides across the state, particularly its investments in infrastructure.
Speaking to newsmen after the meeting, the Chairman of Afijio Traditional Council and paramount monarch of Akinmorin, Oba Solomon Olayemi said the monarchs appreciated the governor’s efforts at improving infrastructure and opening up communities through road development.
He said the Idi Igba-Akinmorin corridor remained important to residents, farmers, traders and other road users in the area, stressing that its deteriorating condition had made transportation difficult and continued to affect economic activities in communities along the route.
“We commend Governor Seyi Makinde for the developmental strides recorded by his administration, especially in the area of infrastructure. However, we appeal to him to give urgent attention to the Idi Igba-Ilora Road, which has become deplorable and increasingly dangerous for motorists and other road users,” he said.
According to him, the poor condition of the road had affected the movement of people and goods while also slowing down economic activities across communities in Afijio Local Government Area.
He said rehabilitating the road would particularly benefit farmers by making it easier to transport agricultural produce from farms to markets, while reducing the difficulties and losses associated with poor road access.
“The rehabilitation of this road will have a direct impact on farming and other economic activities in Afijio. It will make it easier for farmers to move their produce to markets, facilitate the movement of farm inputs and encourage more people to engage in farming and other businesses,” he added.
The monarchs noted that improved road access would also reduce vehicle breakdowns and transportation costs while enhancing connectivity between communities and improving access to schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services.
They added that a properly rehabilitated road will further attract businesses and investments to the area, boost commercial activities and create better economic opportunities for residents.
The traditional council therefore appealed to Governor Makinde to expedite action on the rehabilitation of the road, expressing confidence that its completion would bring significant benefits to farmers, traders, motorists and residents across Afijio and neighbouring communities.
