By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Tracka, a non-governmental organization and social platform dedicated to tracking budgets and public developmental projects, has joined forces with residents of the Kosofe area in Lagos to demand the immediate completion of the long-awaited Demurin Road under Agboyi Ketu Local Council Development Area. The road construction, which commenced in 2020, has faced numerous delays, causing significant hardship for businesses, road users, motorists, and commuters.
The Demurin, Agidi, and Church road construction projects were awarded last year, with completion expected within 9 to 12 months. However, the prolonged delay has prompted an outcry from Tracka and concerned residents, who have taken to social media to express their frustrations. Sharing an image depicting the current state of Demurin Road, Tracka’s tweet reads: “This is the current state of Demurin, Ketu, Kosofe LGA, for your urgent attention.”
One resident, Tholu Olamipo through a tweet, directly addressed the governor, saying, “Dear Governor, the entire Demurin Street Ketu, which had its road construction initiated in July 2020, has become an abandoned project since last year. The entire road is now a death trap for people living on Demurin Street. Kindly complete this road project ASAP.”
Comr Mudashiru Ismaila Alabi, echoing the concerns of many, emphasized the need for prompt action on the road. He stated, “Sincerely, this road needs adequate attention. Moreover, several roads in Ikosi Isheri require the same level of attention, not just for the short term but with a focus on sustainable development that will withstand the test of time. The affected areas include Anibaba, Olarenwaju, Sarumi, and Church Avenue.”
Despite the outcry from residents and Tracka’s call for action, the lawmaker representing Kosofe constituency 2 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Femi Saheed, has yet to respond to messages seeking information on the steps he has taken to draw the attention of Governor Babajide Sanwoolu and the contractor responsible for the project to the concerns of his constituents.
As of the time of this report, both the Lagos State Government and the Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure have not issued a response to Tracka’s tweet or addressed the pressing issue of the delayed road construction.