Commuters urge govt action as Iyana Isolo-NNPC road construction lags

The protracted traffic congestion on the Iyana Isolo-NNPC Road and surrounding areas has frustrated commuters and residents, who are urging authorities to accelerate road repairs for relief.

Residents lamented that the contractor responsible for the road project has continually delayed, intensifying hardship. The prolonged construction has turned commuting into a daily nightmare, with heavy traffic impacting the health of commuters and residents alike.

The Isolo-Ejigbo road construction was sanctioned by former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration two years ago, with approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC). Initially slated for completion in May 2024, progress has been sluggish, raising concerns that the project may not conclude within the following year.

For 22 months, drainage construction has stretched from Lagos State Polytechnic to Pako Bus Stop in Isolo Local Council, along with road construction from Isolo to Ejigbo. Despite attempts by contractors to temporarily address issues in July, heavy rains washed away granite fillings, worsening road conditions with potholes, increased accidents, and severe traffic.

Many stakeholders, including motorists, traders, and residents, have expressed doubts about the contractor’s commitment to completing the project, alleging deliberate delays to secure more funds.

Quadri Muftau, a tricycle operator, described the impact on his daily income. “This gridlock is unbearable. Trucks break down daily, and fuel costs are high. I used to make 15 trips between Isolo and Mushin; now, I can barely complete half. It’s affecting my earnings,” he said.

Motorist Taiwo Taiwo, who rarely travels through the area, noted, “I came here to pick someone, but the suffering is obvious. The road is terrible. Drivers here deserve commendation. It took me an hour from Iyana Isolo to Ireakari.”

A trader, speaking anonymously, expressed similar frustrations, stating, “Fewer customers visit the market due to this road. The contractors seem to be dragging this out intentionally—they work a bit in the rain and disappear.”

Joseph Johnson, a commercial bus driver on the Oshodi-Ikotun route, lamented, “This road’s condition is impacting my business. I used to make six or seven trips, but now I barely manage three.”

Private vehicle owner Daniel Lusoyi added, “It used to take me less than 90 minutes from Iyana Isolo to Ijegun; now, I spend three hours.”