By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has ordered the immediate rehabilitation of critical portions of the Iwo-Osogbo road as a stop-gap measure pending the commencement of full-scale reconstruction.
The directive was issued to the Ministry of Works through a statement by the governor’s spokesperson Mallam Olawale Rasheed in Osogbo on Sunday .
The statement said the directive was in response to public out cry , complaints and technical reports highlighting the worsening condition of the road, especially as torrential rains continue to cause severe damage and erosion.
The governor noted that although the procurement process for the road’s full reconstruction is nearing completion,saying that immediate remedial work was necessary to restore access and reduce the hardship faced by motorists and residents.
He added that recent assessments indicate that parts of the road have deteriorated to the point of near collapse, with deep gullies dividing some sections and making travel extremely difficult. He noted that the road serves as a vital link between the state capital and five local government areas: Iwo, Ayedire, Olaoluwa, Ejigbo, and Egbedore.
Governor Adeleke also assured residents of the affected communities that his administration is committed to completing the entire project within a year.
He disclosed that the state government has finalised plans to restructure the initial contract by dividing the road project into three segments, each to be handled by separate contractors—including the original firm engaged under the previous administration.
“The reconstruction of the Iwo-Osogbo road is a top priority for our administration,” the Governor stated. “We are at the final stage of the procurement process, and contractors will be mobilised to site shortly. While we have taken our time to follow due process, we are also focused on fast-tracking delivery.”
Governor Adeleke further emphasised the strategic economic importance of the road to the five local governments it connects, assuring residents that his administration will “break the jinx” and complete the long-overdue project.
Acting on the governor’s directive, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works deployed engineering teams to inspect the most affected portions and draft a rapid response plan.
According to ministry officials, fieldwork for the spot rehabilitation will commence on Tuesday.