By Omotayo Toyeeb
Residents of Oko-Olowo community in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State have expressed joy as the state government commenced the construction of speed breakers on the ever-busy Oko-Olowo expressway.
The intervention, aimed at curbing frequent road accidents and enhancing the safety of road users, follows the approval granted to the Kwara State Ministry of Works by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The Ministry, led by Engineer Abdulquawiy Olododo, commenced the construction work on Monday, with residents confirming that speed breakers are now being installed on both sides of the expressway.
The Oko-Olowo road, known for its high traffic volume and recurring accidents, has long been a source of concern for residents who had repeatedly called for government intervention calls they said were ignored under the previous PDP-led administration.
Earlier in April, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, had hinted that the state government was seeking federal approval to embark on the project as a temporary measure to enhance safety on the highway.
Following the go-ahead by the FRSC and the directive of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the construction has now begun in earnest.
Speaking during an assessment visit to the site, the Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Governor, Ibraheem Abdullateef Akolu, said the intervention demonstrates the Governor’s commitment to public safety and his reputation as a “promise keeper.”
He also noted that operatives of the FRSC have been stationed at key points along the Shao–Oko-Olowo axis to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and support the government’s effort to prevent further loss of lives.
Some residents who spoke with Nigerian Tribune applauded the move, describing it as timely and life-saving.
“This is what we’ve been crying for. Too many lives have been lost here,” a resident, Alhaji Musbau Salami, said. “We thank the Governor for listening to us.”
The intervention is part of the AbdulRazaq-led administration’s broader efforts to prioritize citizens’ welfare, community safety, and road infrastructure development across the state.
