Honourable Minister of Works
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Abuja, FCT

Dear Honorable Minister

With deep concern and a heavy heart, I write to you on behalf of the Confederation of Ijebu Youths to draw your attention to the horrific and unacceptable state of the Ibadan–Ijebu Ode Express Road, a federal route that has not only become a death trap for our people, but has also been left in shameful neglect by those elected and appointed to serve.

The Ibadan–Ijebu Ode Express Road, constructed in 1962 under the leadership of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, remains one of the oldest federal roads in the country. Sadly, it has not received any substantial upgrade or meaningful rehabilitation since its inception. What was once a symbol of regional development and economic connection between the Southwest and the rest of the country has now deteriorated into a rocky, impassable stretch of sorrow and frustration.

In recent months, over ten fatal accidents have been reported on this road, with many lives lost (recently students) and several others critically injured. Each time we read or hear of these tragic incidents, it breaks our hearts that something so preventable continues to rob families of their loved ones.

We find it disheartening that despite numerous outcries from commuters, residents and concerned citizens, those who are duty-bound to speak and act on behalf of the people have adopted a lackadaisical approach.

Particularly, we call the attention of:

Senator Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East)

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (Oyo South)

Hon. Folorunsho Adegbesan
Ijebu North/Ijebu East/Ogun Waterside Federal Constituency.

Hon. Barr. Olufemi Ogunbanwo (Omo-Iwa)
Ijebu North East/Ijebu Ode/Odogbolu Federal Constituency

Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe
Oluyole Federal Constituency.

Governor Dapo Abiodun
Ogun State

Governor Seyi Makinde
Oyo State

Their collective silence and inaction are disappointing and concerning. While we acknowledge that Senator Lekan Mustapha once raised this road’s condition at the National Assembly during his tenure, but a minor patchwork was done. It is regrettable that no lasting solution followed – up. The road has since returned to a stone-age condition, very rough, highly rocky, and dangerously impassable and now a hideout for kidnappers.

This is not just about bad governance, it’s about human lives. Our people deserve safe roads. Our transporters deserve drivable routes.
Our vehicles shouldn’t be damaged daily because of government neglect.

We, the Confederation of Ijebu Youths therefore, make a passionate appeal to your good office and all relevant authorities to prioritize the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Ibadan–Ijebu Ode Express Road..This is a road of great economic and social importance. It links two major states and serves thousands daily.

We are not asking for favors, we are demanding what is right, just and long overdue!

Let this not be another letter ignored.
Let this not be another cry unheard.
The lives of our people and the dignity of our communities are at stake.

The Time is Now!!!

Signed
Comrade Senbadejo Olawale
Chairman, Confederation of Ijebu Youths
confederationijebuyouth@gmail.com