OJOO ROAD: A LESSON IN ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

For nearly two years, the Ojoo axis of the Ibadan–Oyo Expressway remained a nightmare for motorists. This stretch of the road witnessed persistent traffic gridlock, frequent vehicle breakdowns, and several avoidable road accidents. Sadly, many families have suffered losses and untold hardship as a result of the deplorable condition of the road.

Fortunately, the timely intervention of the Oyo State Government has restored hope and made the road safer for commuters.

It is worth recalling that the Ibadan–Oyo–Ogbomoso Expressway was initiated by the Federal Government during the democratic administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999. Since then, successive Federal Governments have continued its construction and maintenance. As a federal highway, its upkeep is primarily the responsibility of the Federal Government. However, beyond government's constitutional responsibility, citizens also have a duty to protect public infrastructure.

When this road was constructed, drainage channels were provided on both sides to ensure the free flow of rainwater and prevent erosion. Sadly, many residents have turned these gutters into refuse dumps. Instead of patronising approved waste collectors, some people indiscriminately dump household waste into the drainage channels and along the road median. This irresponsible behaviour blocks the free flow of water, weakens the road structure, and contributes to flooding, potholes, and accidents.

The Ojoo axis is a clear example of the consequences of our actions. The blocked drainage channels and neglected environment worsened the condition of the road, making it dangerous for motorists and pedestrians alike. The number of accidents recorded at this location should serve as a wake-up call to all of us. Indeed, the popular saying remains true: when man destroys his environment, he ultimately destroys himself.

Ironically, the Ojoo Bus Terminal is situated beside this same road. It is expected that all relevant authorities, traders, transport unions, and residents should work together to discourage indiscriminate waste disposal and maintain a clean environment. Environmental sanitation is not the responsibility of government alone; it is everyone's responsibility.

I commend the Ojoo Youth Organization for its consistent efforts over the years in providing temporary palliative interventions on this road. More importantly, I appreciate the Oyo State Government for its swift intervention last month. Within two days, government officials desilted the drainage channels on both sides of the road and filled the dangerous potholes that had posed serious threats to road users.

Today, the Ojoo axis is safer and more motorable. This remarkable improvement demonstrates that proper maintenance of drainage infrastructure can significantly reduce road deterioration and improve public safety. However, sustaining this progress depends on all of us. We must cultivate a strong maintenance culture by protecting public infrastructure and treating government property as our collective asset.

Let us change our attitude towards public facilities and our environment. Every resident has a role to play in keeping Ojoo clean, safe, and free from indiscriminate waste disposal. Together, we can preserve this road for ourselves and for future generations.

 Asimiyu Muhideen Abiodun(Apostle)

Writes from Akinyele Local Government Area, Oyo State.