Residents of the Bako, Panada, and Jiboye areas in Ibadan have appealed to the government for urgent construction of a bridge over the Jamoje River along the Ibadan-Abeokuta Road.
They argue that the bridge would prevent recurring crises caused by the river’s overflow during the rainy season.
The affected areas fall within the Ido Local Government Area (LGA) of Oyo State. The Baale of Bako, Abdulfatai Musbaudeen, highlighted the dangers faced by residents, commuters, and motorists during floods.
He explained, “Motorists and cyclists plying the road towards or from Abeokuta are always stranded when the river overflows its bank, making passage difficult.” Musbaudeen noted that blocked culverts and neglected road maintenance contributed to the situation.
The Balogun of Bako, Mudashiru Busari, emphasized the need for a bridge and the dualisation of the Ibadan-Abeokuta Road, stating that these measures would reduce casualties and promote economic growth in the area.
“We live in constant fear whenever it rains,” said Kamal Aremu, a Bako resident. “The river has swept away commercial motorcyclists and their passengers in the past.”
Local residents like Romoke Oladipupo have pointed out that the river’s flow has been obstructed by blocked culverts and agricultural activities, worsening the situation. Similarly, Yusuf Wasiu, Ikolaba Balogun of Omi-Adio, expressed frustration with the temporary fixes provided by the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), which wash away after only a few rains.
“We’ve heard that a construction firm has been awarded the contract for the bridge, but nothing has been done,” said Wasiu. “We urge the Oyo and Ogun State governments to work together on a permanent solution.”
The residents also appealed to Ido LGA Chairman, Sheriff Adeojo, to address the issue of waste dumping along the river to prevent environmental hazards.
The construction of the bridge remains an urgent priority to ensure safety and boost local development.