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Investors Raise Alarm Over Ogun’s Bad Roads, Call for State of Emergency on Infrastructure
ABEOKUTA, Nigeria — Stakeholders and investors in Ogun State have called on the state government to declare a state of emergency on roads, warning that the poor condition of infrastructure is threatening economic growth and discouraging investment in the state.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Ogun, known as Nigeria’s industrial hub and gateway to Lagos, has long attracted factories, warehouses, and real estate projects due to its proximity to the commercial capital. However, business operators say that advantage is fading fast as major roads linking industrial zones, residential communities, and farmlands have fallen into severe disrepair.
Several business owners and residents who spoke with journalists described the situation as “alarming” and “unsustainable,” saying it has become increasingly difficult to move goods and raw materials across the state.
“Our trucks spend hours on short routes that should take minutes,” said Adewale Akintunde, a factory manager in the Sagamu area. “The roads are full of potholes and flood easily whenever it rains. It’s costing us time, fuel, and sometimes even our products.”
From Sango-Ota to Ifo, Papalanto, Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, and Imeko, residents complain that most state and federal roads are riddled with craters and broken drainage systems. Many drivers avoid certain routes completely, forcing traffic onto smaller community roads that are not built for heavy use.
Economic experts warn that without urgent action, Ogun’s infrastructure problems could erode investor confidence and slow the pace of industrial expansion in the state.
“Ogun has the potential to remain Nigeria’s number one investment destination after Lagos,” said Dr. Tunde Olaleye, a development economist. “But no serious investor will continue to pour money into a place where logistics and mobility are a nightmare. Infrastructure is the backbone of growth, and right now, that backbone is weak.”
The Ogun State government has in the past launched several road rehabilitation projects, including the reconstruction of some inner roads in Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, and Sagamu. However, residents say most major highways remain neglected, especially those connecting industrial areas and border communities.
In some parts of the state, locals have taken it upon themselves to fill potholes and clear blocked drains. “We cannot wait forever,” said Mrs. Bukola Aina, a trader in Ifo. “We use our own money to buy sand and gravel just to make the road passable. Government must come and see what people are going through.”
Transport operators also say the situation has driven up fares and vehicle maintenance costs. Commercial drivers complain of frequent breakdowns, damaged tires, and poor road safety, especially at night.
The call for emergency intervention has gained wide support from civil society groups, business associations, and residents’ unions. They are urging Governor Dapo Abiodun to prioritize road infrastructure in the 2026 budget and to work with federal agencies to rehabilitate major arteries that serve industrial clusters.
“Ogun’s economy cannot grow on bad roads,” said Chief Femi Ogunleye, a community leader in Ifo. “We need a coordinated plan — not patchwork repairs — to open up the state again for trade, tourism, and agriculture.”
Observers note that improved road networks could also ease pressure on Lagos, as more companies and commuters would be willing to relocate to neighboring Ogun if access routes were reliable.
As calls for action grow louder, residents are hoping that the government’s promised road reconstruction programs will move from paperwork to real progress on the ground.
Until then, many say the “Gateway State” risks losing its status as Nigeria’s preferred investment destination if its roads remain in ruins.
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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