Road project in Saki, long expected —Residents

Residents and leaders of Saki communities have lauded the award of contract for the dualisation of Saki township road by the Oyo State government, noting that the project was long expected.

The state government had listed the dualisation of Saki township road  from Oke-Ogun Poly to Ilesa Baruba Road, at the sum of N8.23 billion, aside from three other road projects.

Some residents, who spoke to the Nigerian Tribune in separate interviews disclosed that when the road is completed it will attract more development.

They, however, decried the neglect of the road which had contributed to the slow pace of the economic activities of the area, while transportation of farm produce to neighbourhood were difficult.

The Chairman, Caretaker Committee of Saki West Local Government Area of the state, Mr Kareem Adegoke, said that the project will ease transportation, reduce accidents on the road and boost the agricultural sector of the state.

In his response to structures expected to give way for the dualisation, Adegoke said few fences, not houses, would be pulled down, adding that owners of such properties had agreed to sacrifice them.

He expressed optimism that the contractors would move to site soon and ensure that work reaches an advanced stage before the next rainy season.

Rector, The Oke Ogun Polytechnic, Saki, Mr Oladeji Matthew, called for the cooperation of residents, commuters and transporters who may grapple with inconveniences for the duration of the project.

He added that the road rehabilitation was long expected, he said the project was an opportunity to open up Saki to the entire world and would boost the economy of the state.

Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Interstate branch, Mr Rasaq Akande, remarked that the road rehabilitation would improve transportation business and reduce wear and tear in vehicles.

He urged those persons on areas marked for demolition to evacuate.

Community leaders, Mr Yekeen Arikose, Mr Adeyemo Adewunmi and Mrs Fasasi Sabiti expressed joy, saying the development would positively impact upon their businesses, lives and socio-economic of Saki and the entire state.