Communities Demand Fix for Idanre-Owena Road

Communities in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State have appealed to the Federal Ministry of Works to urgently resume and complete the reconstruction of the Idanre-Owena Trunk Road, a major federal highway they say has been abandoned despite its strategic importance to the state’s economy.

The residents expressed concern over the worsening condition of the road, arguing that years of neglect have turned what was once a vital transport corridor into a dangerous route for motorists, farmers, traders and commuters.

The Idanre-Owena Road serves as one of the principal links between Idanre and other parts of Ondo State, connecting farming communities to markets and providing access to neighbouring local government areas. It is also used by businesses transporting agricultural produce, including cocoa, oil palm, cassava and other cash crops for which the area is widely known.

Community leaders said the abandoned reconstruction project has resulted in deep potholes, severe erosion and sections of the road becoming almost impassable, particularly during the rainy season.

According to residents, the poor state of the highway has led to increased transportation costs, frequent vehicle breakdowns and delays in moving goods and services, with many businesses recording significant losses.

Commercial drivers operating along the route also say they spend more on vehicle maintenance because of the damaged road surface, while commuters complain of longer travel times and growing safety concerns.

The affected communities are calling on the Federal Ministry of Works to provide clarity on the status of the reconstruction contract and ensure that contractors return to the site to complete the project.

They stressed that rehabilitating the road would not only improve transportation but also boost agriculture, trade, tourism and investment across the state.

Idanre is home to the UNESCO-listed Idanre Hills, one of Nigeria’s leading tourist destinations. Residents believe that improving access roads would encourage more domestic and international visitors while strengthening the local economy.

The appeal comes amid growing calls across Nigeria for accelerated rehabilitation of federal highways, many of which have suffered years of deterioration due to inadequate maintenance, rising construction costs and funding challenges.

As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Ministry of Works had not publicly responded to the latest appeal by the affected communities.