On Saturday, youths and students in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, took to the streets to protest the deplorable condition of the Ogbomoso-Oyo road. The protesters, who included members of the National Association of University Students and Ogbomoso Indigenous Associations, expressed their frustration over the long-standing neglect of the road, which has led to frequent accidents and loss of lives.
The demonstration was marked by the carrying of placards and banners with various inscriptions calling on the federal government to expedite the road’s rehabilitation. The protesters condemned the deaths resulting from the road’s dilapidated state, labelling them as ‘murder’ rather than accidents due to the authorities’ negligence.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters at the Saki Roundabout in Ogbomoso, the Vice President of NAUS, Comrade Tiamiyu Olayinka, emphasized the critical nature of the road. He noted that the Ogbomoso Road is a lifeline for commuters and a vital economic hub, connecting the Southwest to the Northern corridor. However, its poor condition has severe risks for commuters and residents, affecting businesses and the local economy.
Olayinka highlighted that Ogbomoso hosts one of the largest universities of technology in the country, LAUTECH, and that students are endangered daily due to the road’s condition. He demanded immediate action from the Federal Ministry of Works and relevant authorities to complete the Ibadan-Ogbomoso Road project, repair and maintain the existing roads, and provide relief to affected businesses and residents.
The youth leaders issued a 30-day ultimatum to the government to address their grievances. They warned that failure to meet their demands would lead to mass protests, economic shutdowns, and escalation to national and international platforms.
