Youths and residents of Akotogbo and Ijuosun communities in Ondo State have called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to complete the 28-kilometre Ajagba-Akotogbo-Ijuosun Road and extend electricity to both communities, citing years of hardship caused by poor infrastructure.
Communities Appeal for Completion of 28km Road
In an appeal dated November 4, 2026, and signed by its Chairman, Tony Orilabawaye, the Akotogbo and Ijuosun Youths Forum said the road project, approved in June 2024, remained unfinished, making transportation to farms, markets, schools and health facilities difficult.
The group noted that residents had welcomed the approval of the road project with relief and renewed hope, but more than two years later, substantial sections remain unfinished. It said residents continue to face deep potholes, erosion and overgrown stretches, adding that journeys to farms, markets, schools and health facilities have become difficult and dangerous.
Group Seeks Emergency Repairs, Safety Measures
The forum also highlighted the need for urgent repairs, citing an accident involving a woman from Ijuosun who reportedly sustained fractures to her hands and leg while travelling on the road.
It urged the governor to direct emergency repairs, clear drainage channels and install warning signs while construction continued. The group further requested an independent technical assessment of the completed sections, particularly along the Akotogbo axis, to ensure compliance with approved construction specifications.
In addition, the youths called for the publication of project payment records, certified work and outstanding financial obligations to establish the project’s funding and implementation status.
Two Decades Without Adequate Power Supply
On electricity, the group said both communities had experienced inadequate power infrastructure for about 20 years, adding that Ijuosun had never been connected to the national grid.
According to the forum, artisans spend scarce income on fuel, small businesses struggle to remain open, and students have limited light for evening study. It said reliable electricity would allow residents to work more productively and give young people a better chance to build their future at home.
The youths urged the state government to work with relevant electricity agencies to assess the situation and develop a plan for providing power to both communities.
14-Day Deadline for Government Response
The group also requested a meeting with government representatives and a written response within 14 days, outlining proposed interventions and the officials responsible for implementation.
The appeal underscores the growing pressure on the state government to address infrastructure deficits in rural communities, where poor roads and unreliable power supply continue to affect livelihoods, education and small businesses.
