Residents of Unity Estate in Ido-Osun, Osun State, recently took to the streets in a peaceful protest to voice their frustration over a road construction project they claim has been abandoned and poorly executed. The residents say that the link road, which stretches over two kilometers and begins at the entrance to Halleluyah Estate, was commissioned by former Governor Gboyega Oyetola's administration in 2022, with the contract awarded to Moshula Nigeria Limited.
According to the protesting residents, only about one kilometer of the road has seen drainage and asphalt laid. Within Unity Estate itself, only drainage has been constructed, and even that is reportedly damaged by erosion due to shoddy work and poor-quality materials. This incomplete and damaged state has made it impossible for many residents to access their homes by vehicle, severely impacting their daily lives and businesses.
During the protest, residents barricaded the estate's entrance and exit, holding placards with messages like 'Government come to our aid,' 'The contractor Moshula has failed us,' and 'Moshula fix our road, you’re paid.'
Mr. Taofeek Shehu, the chairman of the Community Development Association, spoke to journalists, accusing Moshula Nigeria Limited of abandoning the project and delivering substandard work. He explained that while the project began under the previous administration, Governor Ademola Adeleke's current government had instructed the contractor to continue. However, Shehu alleges that Moshula has not been cooperative and has left the work unfinished and in disrepair. He even claimed that the contractor is "boasting" about not returning to the site, allegedly because he is the governor's in-law.
Shehu appealed directly to Governor Adeleke, emphasizing the road's importance as it connects many areas. He urged the state government to intervene, instruct the contractor to finish the job, and rectify the existing poor work.
When contacted about the situation, Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed the government's awareness of the road's condition, stating, "We are aware of it and have invited the contractor for a meeting."
