Nigeria begins emergency repairs on failed Ekiti highway after motorists stranded

Motorists in Ekiti State, Nigeria, face significant hardship as emergency repairs commence on the dilapidated Ifaki-Oye-Kabba Road. The road's worsening condition has left articulated vehicles stranded for days, disrupting economic activities and raising security concerns.

Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, visited the affected area, expressing concern over the plight of stranded drivers and residents. He acknowledged the road's importance as a critical economic corridor linking the South-West to the northern parts of the country. The deterioration has effectively cut off communities, impacting residents and businesses.

An articulated vehicle driver, Quasm Abudu, recounted being stuck for three days, missing opportunities due to the delay. Local resident Bolade Olowo described the situation as "traumatic and unpalatable," emphasizing the crippling effect on socio-economic activities and the security threat posed by the impassable road.

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The continued deterioration of the road is crippling socio-economic activities. It has cut off communities in the local government and along the route. It also poses a serious security threat in the area.

Goronyo assured that emergency palliative works had begun to clear the stranded trucks and make the road passable. He stated the Federal Government's commitment to fixing the road swiftly and mentioned a rehabilitation contract awarded in 2025. However, the contractor reportedly cited inadequate funding. The minister promised to review the funding arrangement to ensure the contractor is adequately mobilized.

Immediate intervention is being carried out by the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), with equipment and materials deployed to the site. The government aims to ensure the contractor returns to complete the rehabilitation, recognizing the road's vital role in regional connectivity and economic activity.

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The contractor had been mobilised, but was complaining of inadequate funding. The Federal Government will review the funding arrangement and ensure that the contractor is adequately mobilised to return to site.