Residents of Ogbomoso in Oyo State are urging both the federal and state governments to undertake the dualization of the primary trunk A road within the city. They emphasize the imperative nature of this initiative to prevent frequent road accidents that have led to a significant loss of lives. Recent reports indicate that within a week, around 18 individuals lost their lives in various accidents along this route, with numerous others sustaining severe injuries.
The road, spanning approximately 7 to 8 kilometers, connects Ogbomoso with cities in the southern and northern regions of the country, passing through Agric – Arinkinkin High School – Caretaker – Takie – Sabo and Aroje. Among the casualties were three traditional rulers from Oriire Local Government Area, en route to a funeral event. Additionally, three motorcyclists lost their lives in the Emaayo area, and a tragic incident involving a petrol tanker led to the burning of nine individuals at Sekona village.
In response to these alarming incidents, concerned residents are urging authorities to dualize the road and construct flyover bridges at strategic locations, including Takie Square and Caretaker junction. One resident, Mr. Idowu Ashifa, implored Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene, emphasizing that dualizing the road would mitigate head-on collisions and enhance overall safety. Another resident, Michael Adegbosin, stressed the need for a dual carriageway to reduce accidents and facilitate emergency response, advocating for the road’s maintenance to be handed over to the Oyo State government once the federal government completes the dual carriageway project linking Ibadan to Ilorin through Oyo and Ogbomoso.
An anonymous resident also called for the construction of flyovers at critical points, citing Takie Square as particularly accident-prone. They reminded Governor Makinde of his past commitment to erect a flyover at Ogunlola Hall and urged him to fulfill this promise, emphasizing the significance of addressing the safety concerns at Caretaker junction as well.