_By Fanisi Babatunde PhD.
The Kabba-Aiyetoro-Isanlu-Egbe-Ilorin Federal road, which connects Kogi State with Kwara State, has been in a poor state for many years. Despite being included in every Federal Government budget since 1999, the road remains virtually impassable. This is a matter of great concern and disappointment for the people who rely on this road for their daily commute and economic activities.
The sorry state of this road has turned it into a dreaded route for travelers. Those coming from Abuja and other parts of the country have to take a longer route through Ekiti State to access Ilorin in Kwara State. This not only adds significant travel time but also results in economic losses for the people of the region. The prolonged journey affects businesses, trade, and overall development in the area.
One of the major issues with the road is its poor condition, which poses serious risks to motorists. The road is riddled with potholes, craters, and uneven surfaces, making it extremely dangerous to drive on. Accidents are common, and the risk of vehicle damage is high. Additionally, some sections of the road have become hotspots for criminal activities such as kidnapping and armed robbery. This further endangers the lives and properties of those who travel through these areas.
Stakeholders, including local communities, transport unions, and concerned citizens, have repeatedly appealed to the Federal Government for urgent intervention. They have highlighted the pressing need for sustained budgetary provisions to rehabilitate and maintain the road. These pleas, however, seem to have fallen on deaf ears as the road continues to deteriorate.
It is our hope that the present administration, under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will prioritize the rehabilitation of the Kabba-Aiyetoro-Isanlu-Egbe-Ilorin Federal road. The people of the region deserve better infrastructure and improved connectivity. It is essential for the government to allocate adequate funds and ensure that the road is reconstructed to a high standard.
Investing in the rehabilitation of this road will not only enhance transportation but also boost economic activities in the region. It will attract investors, create job opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life for the people. Furthermore, ensuring the safety and security of travelers along this road is of utmost importance. The government must work towards eliminating criminal activities and making the road safe for all users.
The poor state of the Kabba-Aiyetoro-Isanlu-Egbe-Ilorin Federal road is a matter of great concern. The road’s inclusion in numerous Federal Government budgets without significant improvement reflects a lack of commitment to the welfare of the people. Urgent action is needed to rehabilitate and maintain this road, ensuring the safety and economic development of the region. It is our hope that the present administration will address this issue and bring much-needed relief to the people who rely on this road for their daily lives.