Paata-Abiodun Monarch and Leaders Decry Decades of Neglect, Demand Urgent Road Construction
Traditional leaders and residents of Paata-Abiodun community in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State have voiced their frustration over decades of neglect, urgently calling on the state government to construct access roads linking the town to neighboring communities. They warned that the absence of motorable roads continues to cripple economic activities in this agrarian community, despite its vast arable land and historical significance as a commercial hub.
Monarch Highlights Infrastructure Deficiencies
Speaking on the development, the Olu of Paata-Abiodun, Oba Martins Adetoyese Abiodun, described poor road infrastructure as the major challenge hindering the movement of goods and services, trade, and agricultural productivity in the area. "Our major concern remains the road leading into our town," the monarch said. "We have farmers and very fertile land, but after farming, where do we take our produce? The roads are in terrible condition, and in many areas, we are surrounded by water."
He explained that Paata-Abiodun, historically comprising Paata-Ajegunle and Paata-Abiodun, had long been a commercial center but has now been cut off due to infrastructural deficiencies. According to him, the lack of access roads has discouraged investment and made development nearly impossible. "Paata has always been a place of business, but without good roads, development is almost impossible," he added. The monarch, however, commended the Ogun State Government for formally recognizing the community and approving his installation with the presentation of staff of office.
Community Leaders Echo Concerns Over Basic Amenities
Also speaking, the Baale of Orobi-Oshai and Chairman of Baales in Ishunre Ward, Baale Sopeju Ladipo, said over 80 Baales across the ward are facing similar infrastructural challenges. "As you can see, the roads are in poor condition. We lack pipe-borne water, and only a few villages have electricity," he said. "Most of what we have here is through self-help. We can hardly feel the presence of government." He also praised Oba Abiodun for his efforts in attracting development to the area.
On her part, the Otun Iyalode of Paata-Abiodun, Mrs. Folake Oluku Ewu, lamented the hardship faced by residents, especially traders and farmers, due to the absence of access roads. "Our people suffer greatly because of the road linking our town. This has hindered business activities and overall development," she said. "The alternative route is through water, even though we have fertile land for farming." She urged the government to replicate infrastructure interventions seen in other riverine communities.
Calls for Sustainable Solutions and Government Response
Similarly, the Otunba of Paata-Abiodun, Kamorudeen Adenekan, appealed to both local and state governments to provide proper road connectivity to the town. "Using waterways as a major means of access is not sustainable," he said, noting that the rainy season further worsens the situation. The community leaders expressed optimism that improved road infrastructure would unlock the area's agricultural potential, boost trade, and enhance livelihoods.
Responding, the Chairman of Ifo Local Government, Hon. Idris Olalekan Kusimo, said the council had not neglected the community, noting that efforts are ongoing in collaboration with the state government to address the situation. He disclosed that the road project being handled by Dangote Cement from Interchange to Papalanto has been completed, adding that the council would work to extend connecting roads to Paata-Abiodun and neighboring communities.
The persistent calls from Paata-Abiodun leaders underscore a critical need for infrastructural development in rural Ogun State, highlighting how neglect can stifle economic growth and community well-being despite abundant natural resources.
