— Say poor access cripples farming, trade
— LG promises action after Dangote road project
Residents and traditional authorities in Paata-Abiodun community, located in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, have renewed calls for urgent government intervention to address the deplorable state of access roads linking the town to neighbouring communities, warning that the situation is stifling economic growth.
Speaking at a community engagement forum, the Olu Paata of Paata-Abiodun, Oba Martins Adetoyese Abiodun, described the absence of motorable roads as the most pressing challenge confronting the agrarian community.
“Our major concern remains the road leading into our town,” the monarch stated. “We are predominantly farmers with very fertile land, but the question is: how do we transport our produce to the markets? The roads are in a terrible condition, and in many parts, we are surrounded by water.”
The royal father noted that Paata-Abiodun, historically comprising Paata-Ajegunle and Paata-Abiodun before the emergence of newer settlements, had long thrived as a commercial hub. However, he lamented that poor infrastructure has now cut the town off from investment opportunities and slowed development.
“Paata has always attracted business activities, which is why many people identify with this town. But without accessible roads, meaningful development remains a challenge,” he added, while appreciating the Ogun State Government for recognising the community and approving his installation with the staff of office.
Also speaking, the Baale of Orobi-Oshai and Chairman of Baales in Ishunre Ward, Baale Sopeju Ladipo, disclosed that more than 80 Baales across the ward are grappling with similar infrastructural deficits.
“As you can see, the roads are in bad shape. We lack pipe-borne water, and only a few communities have access to electricity,” he said. “Most of what we have here is through self-help. Government presence is hardly felt.”
He commended the monarch for his advocacy and efforts to attract development to the area, while also acknowledging the state government’s approval of the royal installation.
In her remarks, the Otun Iyalode of Paata-Abiodun, Mrs Folake Oluku Ewu, decried the hardship faced by residents, particularly farmers and traders, due to the absence of accessible roads.
“Our people suffer immensely because of the poor road network,” she said. “It has severely hindered business activities. In some cases, we resort to using water routes despite having vast arable land.”
She urged the government to replicate infrastructure solutions implemented in other riverine communities facing similar geographical challenges.
“We have seen communities with even larger water bodies where the government has intervened. We believe such solutions can be extended to us,” she added.
Similarly, the Otunba of the community, Kamorudeen Adenekan, emphasised the unsustainability of relying on waterways for transportation, particularly during the rainy season when flooding worsens access challenges.
“The rainy season remains a major setback every year, disrupting movement and economic activities,” he noted.
Despite the challenges, community leaders expressed optimism that improved road infrastructure would unlock the area’s agricultural potential, enhance trade, and improve livelihoods.
Responding to the concerns, the Chairman of Ifo Local Government, Hon. Idris Olalekan Kusimo, assured residents that the council has not abandoned the community, noting that efforts are ongoing in collaboration with the state government to provide a lasting solution.
He explained that upon completion of the ongoing road construction project by Dangote Cement linking Interchange to Papalanto, the local government would commence work on expanding connecting roads to Pata-Abiodun and neighbouring communities.
Kusimo reiterated the administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure and boosting economic activities across underserved areas within the local government.
