The Ede–Osogbo road, serving as a vital link for communities, trade, and daily livelihoods in parts of Osun State, has fallen into a state of disrepair, with deep potholes and frequent accidents turning it into a growing socioeconomic burden for residents and road users.

Speaking with Redio Afinju correspondents at Ara Junction, an okada rider, Saheed Adeniji, recounted how his brother, Wasiu Adeniji, aged about 27, and two friends lost their lives in an accident involving a tipper truck on the road described as government-forgotten road.

Also speaking, the Ara Junction bike riders’ chairman, Augustine Linus, alongside Babatunde Mukaila, lamented that the poor state of the road has slowed down business activities. They appealed to Governor Ademola Adeleke to ensure the completion of the road’s rehabilitation before the end of his administration.

Recall that the road was awarded to Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Limited during the administration of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola and flagged off on October 27, 2022. While portions equivalent to the funds released were delivered, significant sections of the project remain uncompleted.

The vice chairman of Egbedore Motor Park in Dada Estate, Akiniyi Ilesanmi, said the bad condition of the road from Dele-Yes-Sir to Ara Junction has led to frequent vehicle breakdowns, increased spare parts replacement and accidents.

Meanwhile, the treasurer of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Egbedore Local Government, Muritala Okunade, noted that although he is not aware of recorded casualties, many motorists avoid the road at night over fears of kidnapping.

In early August 2025, Governor Ademola Adeleke ordered the immediate rehabilitation of the Iwo–Ede Junction to Osogbo road, directing the Ministry of Works to focus on the most deteriorated sections pending full reconstruction.

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According to his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor also announced plans to fast-track completion by splitting the existing contract into three, engaging three companies, including the former contractor, with a completion timeline of less than one year.

Traders along the axis say the poor road condition has crippled their businesses, as motorists now divert to alternative routes. Yetunde Adefisan, Abdul-Rahmon Olaiya and Magret called on the Adeleke-led administration to rehabilitate the road to revive sales and economic activities.

The condition of the Ede Junction–Osogbo road underscores the human and economic cost of infrastructure neglect. While government assurances offer hope, residents say lasting relief will only come with visible action and timely completion of this critical road, essential to restoring safety, mobility and livelihoods across the affected communities.