The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has expressed concern over the slow pace of work on the ongoing dualisation of the Akure-Owo-Benin Road, particularly along the Akure/Ogbese axis, calling on the contractor handling the project to accelerate construction and reduce the hardship faced by motorists.
The appeal formed part of the resolutions reached at the union’s monthly congress held at the NUJ Press Centre, Alagbaka, Akure, where members reviewed developments affecting Ondo State and the nation.
In a communiqué signed by the State Secretary, Olaoluwa Meshack, after the congress presided over by the State Chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, the union urged the contractor to adopt measures that would ensure smoother vehicular movement during the construction period.
The journalists stressed that adequate traffic management should be put in place before existing asphalt is removed, noting that the current situation has caused severe inconvenience to commuters and other road users.
“The congress frowned at the slow pace of work on the Akure-Owo-Benin road dualisation project, particularly the Akure/Ogbese axis, and urged the contractor handling the federal project to make way for easy vehicular movement before removing the tarred road,” the communiqué stated.
The congress further advised the contractor to complete one carriageway and open it to traffic before commencing work on the second lane to minimise disruptions and ease traffic congestion.
“The contractor should ensure the completion of one carriageway before commencing work on the second lane to minimise disruption and ease movement for motorists,” the communiqué added.
The union also appealed to the Ondo State Government to expedite ongoing road projects across the state to improve infrastructure and enhance the welfare of residents.
In addition, the congress called on relevant authorities to address indiscriminate parking along Arakale Road, noting that the situation has compounded traffic challenges around the ongoing construction of the Akure flyover project.
The NUJ expressed optimism that prompt action by both the contractor and government authorities would alleviate the difficulties currently experienced by road users and residents.