Residents and motorists across Lagos have expressed deep concern over the worsening state of the city’s roads, calling on the government to take immediate palliative action.

They identified areas such as Ajah, Ikorodu, Egbeda, Isolo, Ilasa, Oshodi, Mushin and Ikeja as some of the worst affected, citing deteriorated road surfaces, deep potholes, and drainage-related issues as persistent challenges.

Many of the complainants criticised what they described as the government’s lackadaisical approach to road maintenance. One motorist, Segun Lawal, who plies the CMS-Ajah route, said poor maintenance has led to frequent vehicle breakdowns and enlarged potholes. He also questioned the rationale behind continued fee collections by the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), despite a lack of visible benefits to drivers.

Similarly, George Obande, a commercial bus driver, lamented that road repairs are often carried out only during election periods. He pointed to specific trouble spots, including the roundabout to Egbeda, Araromi bus stop and Guinness Road, as areas in urgent need of government attention.

Another commuter, Jude Alekwu, expressed frustration over the government’s delayed response to maintenance along the Cele-Ikotun and Abaranje routes. He also faulted the NURTW for not contributing to road improvements despite collecting daily levies from drivers.

In Ikeja, motorist Emmanuel Ogungboola drew attention to the consequences of government inaction, blaming the deteriorating roads on poor drainage and waste disposal, which often result in flooding.

Anjola Ibukun, a resident of Igbogbo, Ikorodu, who commutes to the Island for work, said both the government and citizens have a role to play in improving road conditions. She called for a collaborative approach to resolving the problem.

Another road user raised concerns about the increasing cost of transportation and the discomfort motorists face due to neglected potholes. He urged the government to prioritise emergency interventions on bad roads.

Responding to the complaints, the Lagos State Public Works Corporation (LSPWC), through its Director of Public Affairs, Dr Samuel Ayetutu, said roadworks are ongoing in several locations, with particular attention on Egbeda and Guinness Road. He assured residents that routine maintenance is being carried out to address signs of distress on affected roads.