Ota-Idiroko Road Project Faces Delays and Quality Issues in Ogun State
Residents in Oju Ore and motorists using the Ota–Idiroko highway in Ogun State are experiencing mounting hardship as construction on the road progresses at a slow pace. Initial relief over the project's award has given way to frustration, with many questioning both the speed and quality of the work. Allegations have surfaced that the contractor, Laralek Ultimate Limited, is deploying inadequate manpower, and local laborers are handling aspects of bridge and drainage construction without sufficient equipment or supervision.
Concerns Over Construction Standards
Some residents describe sections of the drainage as too shallow for a major highway, raising fears about potential flooding. The Federal Government awarded the N15 billion contract to Laralek in January 2024, following the collapse of a tax credit arrangement with Globacom. Since then, motorists report that poor standards and delays have worsened commuting conditions, despite adjustments made after earlier complaints.
Residents and road users have called on the Federal Ministry of Works to intensify oversight. They urged the minister, Dave Umahi, to conduct regular inspections to ensure the project stays on schedule. While work on the Oju Ore and Winners flyovers has reached notable stages, overall progress lacks urgency, according to local feedback.
On-Site Observations and Resident Testimonies
When The Guardian visited the site on Monday, April 13, 2026, work was ongoing around the flyovers, but no clear project timeline was displayed. At the construction yard, an official identified as Halimat, said to be in accounts, declined detailed comment, noting that the project manager, Hafeez, was unavailable. A commercial tricyclist, Samuel Segun, described the strain on road users, particularly during rainfall, and expressed hope for early completion.
An official of the construction firm, Adel Morat, maintained that work was progressing. He stated, "We started three years ago. Work is moving, there is no delay, and some of the flyover need only parapet and other minor work. We are working from Sango 00 to 62 kilometres, so we are working."
Residents also raised concerns about flooding and dust. The Chief Imam of Istijabah Central Mosque, Baby "O", Oju-Ore, Ota, Alhaji Ariyo Mohammed, said, "We experienced flooding before the drainage was constructed, but it has reduced. However, we are still being disturbed because of how the gutter was constructed. The dust is also a lot during this dry season, so the construction company should consider wetting the road. We can't bear the dust; it affects both adults and babies. The government should come to our rescue and complete the construction before the rainy season."
Another resident, Toheeb Alabi, added, "We are going through a difficult time on the road, so there is need to act fast. Residents manoeuvre to get home whenever it rains, and it has also led to traffic logjam. I pass through a lot accessing home. The delay has led to increase in cost of transportation. Oju Ore to Iyana increased from N300 to N700, so the government should prevail on the contractor to speed up."
Federal Response and Project Outlook
Responding to these concerns, the Federal Controller of Works in Ogun State, Michael Komolafe, said progress had been recorded, with the first layer of asphalt laid over seven kilometres. He acknowledged concerns about quality and assured that corrective steps would be taken. "The project is divided into sections, each with technical assistants overseeing the work," he explained.
Despite concerns about the contractor's capacity, Komolafe stated that Laralek was selected through due process. He added that the project remained on track for completion by 2028. "To the best of my knowledge, the contractor is not being owed. A part of the road will end in 2027 and others in 2028. The work will not exceed 2028," he affirmed.
