Lagos kick-starts phase 2 of road rehabilitation/ upgrading in Epe

In continuation of the urban renewal programmes embarks upon by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration, the government, last week unfolded the second phase of rehabilitation and upgrading of the arterial/inner roads in Epe Local Government Area of the state, with the assurance that owners of affected building that may face demolition will be duly compensated.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting held at Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCOPED), Naforija, Epe, last wekend, the State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Abiola Anifowoshe, a town planner, while soliciting for the support and cooperation of community leaders in the area, said the road construction was part of the infrastructure development envisioned the  government to ensure modern infrastructure provision.

Besides, Anifowoshe noted that in view of the influx of people from different places to Epe, either as residents or for business activities, it has become imperative for the community to be provided with modern and sustainable infrastructure and amenities.

“There is no doubt that Epe Town and its environs are presently witnessing influx of people and increased traffic volume as a result of industrial and commercial growth arising from various developments like Dangote Oil Refinery, air and sea ports, as well as industries within the Lekki Free Trade Zone”, he said, adding that the roads when completed, will improve connectivity and accommodate the expected increased traffic volume arising from industrial and commercial growth, including the capability to enhancing property values.

The commissioner also informed the gathering that marking of the affected buildings and serving of statutory notices would commence immediately and appealed to residents for full cooperation, adding that government will not demolish beyond what has been marked.

“This project is in fulfillment of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s promise of rehabilitating all road networks and ensuring even development across the state,” he said.

I just want to implore our people to cooperate with the contractors in the course of project execution, because at the end, we all come to enjoy the dividends of democracy”, said Anifowoshe, stating that temporary office would be created at Eredo Town to receive any complaints from the residents.

He also assured property owners that with availability of building approval, certificate of occupancy or survey as well as a photograph of the affected buildings, they will be adequately compensated, stressing the need to ensure quick completion of the project.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Works and Infrastructure – Mr. Olujimi Hotonu, an engineer, who enumerated the scope of the project noted that it include dual carriage way road with a length of 13000metrs and an average width of 19metres, that would start from Ottin- Odomola – Poka- Mojoda(Boundary of Lagos/Ogun State) Road, adding that the segment would also include completion of the rehabilitation /upgrading (1040m) of Professor Agbalajobi Road -Segment 2, phase 1(Aiyetoro Garage to Ita Opo Central Mosque) from formation level to asphalt surfacing with provision of drains, street lights service ducts.

The second segment according to the Permanent Secretary, who was represented by Mr. Olanrewaju Daodu, also an engineer, said would include rehabilitation from Oke-Osho through Araga to Poka Junction on Epe – Ijebu Ode Road, which he said would be a dual carriageway with a length of 600metres and an average width of 19 metres.

He, therefore, charged the people and  concerned communities to support the government and the contractors.

The Project Manager, Craneburg Construction Company Limited, Mr Alex Nonpelis, also appealed for absolute cooperation of all the residents concerned.