The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has cautioned motorists and residents in Ekiti State to avoid actions that could undermine the durability of recently rehabilitated federal roads, including indiscriminate parking of heavy-duty vehicles, petroleum product spillage, and vandalism of infrastructure.
The warning was issued by the Director of West Operations, Francis Isabiyi, during an inspection tour of Sukuk-funded road projects across the state. The visit formed part of a nationwide evaluation of federal road interventions financed through the Sukuk bond programme.
The inspection covered strategic locations, including a 1.2-kilometre stretch passing through Ikunri Modern Market (Alubarika Market) in Ikunri-Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area, as well as a 1.6-kilometre section connecting Itawure to the Osun State boundary.
Speaking with journalists at Ikunri, Isabiyi expressed satisfaction with the standard of work carried out, noting that FERMA’s approach focuses on rehabilitating critical portions of damaged roads rather than undertaking full-scale reconstruction.
He explained that similar targeted interventions are ongoing across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Describing the route as a vital trunk corridor, Isabiyi said it links Abuja through Ifaki, Ikole, and Omuo, with onward connections to Lagos, Ilorin, and Kogi State, while also serving key institutions and communities within Ekiti.
Despite the progress recorded, he stressed the importance of public cooperation in maintaining the roads, pointing out that human activities often compromise newly repaired infrastructure.
“Indiscriminate parking of trucks on rehabilitated sections leads to diesel and petrol spillage, which weakens the road surface. Communities must discourage such practices,” he said.
“We also face challenges of vandalism, including the removal of guardrails and theft of installed streetlights. These are public assets and should be protected.”
At the Itawure axis, the Southwest Zonal Director, Alonge Babatunde, also described the project as satisfactory, noting that minor issues identified would be promptly addressed. He added that the work remains on track within its six-month completion timeline and commended the contractor for steady progress.
Babatunde advised motorists to avoid overspeeding on the rehabilitated road, noting that the improvements have already reduced accidents and vehicle breakdowns.
He further highlighted the economic impact of the project, stating that improved road conditions would enhance mobility, stimulate commercial activities, and support local businesses.
Residents and commuters who spoke during the inspection expressed appreciation to the federal government, citing improved safety, reduced travel time, and better economic opportunities.
At Ikunri, road users noted that the previously dilapidated road is now motorable, while calling for the extension of rehabilitation efforts to adjoining areas, particularly around Ayedun.
Similarly, at the Itawure axis, drivers and traders described the project as a significant relief and urged the government to sustain infrastructure development across the state.
