There has been palpable fear and apprehensions among many residents and regular users of the Ikorodu-Sagamu road due to a recent statement, credited to Mrs Kemi Adeosun, the honourable minister for finance, who revealed that the federal government would be transferring about 60% of its 2017 capital project to the 2018 budget.
The reality that they may have to endure more hardships and wait a little longer before the terribly dilapidated road, which was recently listed among federal roads to be rehabilitated before the end of the year 2017 is attended to by the government is the reason behind the apprehensions.
Adeosun made this startling revelation when making presentation to members of the National assembly committee on Finance and Appropriation at the national assembly recently.
The minister, who appeared alongside her counterpart in the Budget and Planning Ministry, Victor Udo-Udoma stated that, so far, her ministry has only been able to release a paltry 25% funding for the 2017 appropriated capital projects, thereby making the release of funds for the remaining capital projects for the year very uncertain.
The Ikorodu-Sagamu road, which is arguably the worst in the part of the state has been a major embarrassment to both the state and federal governments who have subjected millions of Ikorodu residents to untold hardships and avoidable loss of lives, caused by accidents on the road.
Residents had heaved a sigh of relief when the road was recently listed for rehabilitation by the federal government, followed by call for tender from prospective contractors to handle the project.
However, in a chat with Ikorodu Oga Radio, Hon Babajimi Benson,member, representing Ikorodu federal constituency at the lower chamber of the national assembly has allayed the fears being expressed by residents.
‘Minister Kemi Adeosun’s statement only concerns ongoing road projects carried over from 2016 budget. In this case, roads listed in the 2017 budget, especially those where works are yet to commence, like the Ikorodu-Sagamu road are not affected’, he submitted.
Meanwhile, Hon SOB Agunbaide, member, representing Ikorodu Constituency 1 and majority leader of the Lagos state house of assembly has promised to prevail on the state government to carry out a palliative measure on the road, to relieve residents of the harrowing experience of using the road. Agunbaide made this promise at the Lagos state house of assembly Ikorodu constituency 1 town hall meeting held at Lagos state polytechnic campus, Ikorodu recently.
