Residents of Idanre Local Government Area in Ondo State have appealed to the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the abandoned Idanre–Owena federal road project, describing its continued neglect as a major source of hardship, economic losses and security risks.
In a petition addressed to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, the residents said the road rehabilitation and reconstruction project was awarded on January 27, 2023, but alleged that no contractor has mobilised to the site since the contract was awarded. They claimed the project still appears in the federal budget as an ongoing project despite the absence of visible work.
The petitioners called for an independent investigation into the project’s status, including funds released, the identity of the contractor and the execution process. They also urged the government to suspend further payments, prosecute anyone found to have mismanaged the project and ensure the road is either properly re-awarded or construction begins without further delay.
According to the residents, the deplorable condition of the Idanre–Owena road has hampered movement, affected businesses and exposed commuters to safety risks, prompting their call for urgent federal intervention in the interest of transparency, accountability and development.
