Residents of Aduragbemi community in Ido-Osun, Osun State, have erupted in protest after a newly tarred road was completely washed away by rainfall just one day following its completion. The incident has sparked outrage over alleged substandard construction and calls for urgent government intervention.
The affected road, spanning from Trade Fair/Ido-Osun Junction to Adeleke Estate via Aduramigba, was officially tarred on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. However, heavy rains the following day caused the newly constructed road to deteriorate rapidly, rendering it impassable. Residents of Aduragbemi took to the streets on Friday, May 16, 2025, carrying placards and voicing their frustrations over the apparent poor workmanship.
Community members accused the contractor responsible for the project of negligence and using inferior materials. Social media posts, particularly one by Adekeye Moses, claimed the project was initially approved to be stone-based but was allegedly constructed using laterite, a cheaper and less durable alternative. This has intensified demands for accountability and a thorough investigation by the state government.
“The road did not even last 24 hours before it was destroyed by rain. This is unacceptable,” one protester said. Residents expressed concerns that the use of substandard materials not only wastes public funds but also endangers their daily commute and the overall development of the area.
The protestors have urged Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration to step in promptly, hold the contractor responsible, and ensure the road is rebuilt to proper standards. They emphasized that continued neglect of infrastructure quality could erode public trust and hamper socio-economic activities in the region.
In response to the uproar, Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson to Governor Adeleke, confirmed that the contractor has been issued a formal query. He stated that the Osun State Ministry of Works will soon release an official statement addressing the situation. “The contractor is queried already. The Ministry is issuing a statement soon,” Rasheed disclosed, signaling that the government is taking the matter seriously.
This incident highlights recurring challenges in infrastructure development across parts of Nigeria, where poor project oversight and corruption often lead to subpar outcomes. Road infrastructure is critical for local economies, providing access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities. When such projects fail, communities bear the brunt through increased travel costs, delays, and safety risks.
Experts note that for sustainable infrastructure, it is essential that government agencies implement rigorous monitoring, ensure contractors comply with technical standards, and engage community stakeholders during project execution. The Osun road debacle serves as a reminder of the urgent need for transparency and quality assurance in public works.
Governor Adeleke’s administration, which has pledged to improve state infrastructure, now faces the test of managing this crisis effectively. Swift corrective actions, including reconstruction with durable materials and punitive measures against negligent contractors, will be necessary to restore confidence among Osun residents.
As the state awaits the Ministry of Works’ statement, residents remain hopeful that their concerns will lead to improved infrastructure development practices and lasting solutions. The Aduragbemi road episode underscores the importance of sustainable investments and accountability in Nigeria’s infrastructural projects to ensure that public funds translate into tangible benefits for communities.
Osun State, under Governor Ademola Adeleke, has embarked on several infrastructure initiatives aimed at boosting economic growth and improving living standards. However, incidents like the recent road collapse raise questions about project management and quality control.
Rain-induced damage shortly after project completion is often attributed to inadequate site preparation, poor drainage systems, and the use of inappropriate materials. Laterite, while used in some road constructions, is not suitable for main roads without proper stabilization and should not replace approved materials like stone base or asphalt.
For sustainable development, road projects must follow established engineering standards, incorporate climate resilience measures, and be subject to independent audits.
The government’s forthcoming statement and subsequent actions will be closely watched by residents, civil society, and investors who demand accountability and value for public spending.