Bolutife Adedokun
In the tranquil hush of early morning, a subtle mist hangs in the air as Akungba market women navigate the challenging terrain of battered roads, determined to reach the market.
The rhythmic patter of raindrops blends with the soft murmurs of vendors, creating a poignant symphony of resilience against the backdrop of challenging conditions.
The women press forward, carrying both their wares and aspirations, embracing the dawn with unwavering determination despite the adversity underfoot.
One of these women, Mrs Akinsola, narrated how she had been fighting the odds as a daily breadwinner of her family in navigating treacherous roads to sell her goods. “The road is not good at all,” she said, noting that the market women shield themselves with makeshift barriers when it rains, packing sand and stones to protect themselves and goods from floods.
She expressed the devastating impact of the dilapidated road in Akungba on their livelihoods, lamenting the shattered hopes it brought. “This place resembles a palm oil industry due to the perpetual mud,” she remarked, emphasizing the dire condition.
Reflecting on the toll the battered roads took on her sales during the rainy season, the mother, who has (insert number) children, earnestly appealed to the government for assistance. With tears glistening in her eyes, she stated, “We are fervently praying to God and the government for help
“They must address the repair of this road; it’s the very path where we labor from dawn till dusk. With no alternative route, we find ourselves tethered to this necessity, and we dare not wish for its stagnation,” she observed, skillfully steadying her robust wheelbarrow equipped with makeshift shock absorbers, safeguarding her cargo.”
The students of Akungba in a report published by the Guardian on November 21, 2021 have voiced their concerns as regards the bad road .
According to the students, the deteriorated condition of the road has led to frequent incidents of robbery against travelers, resulting in loss of lives and property.
Additionally, they expressed concern that numerous potholes on the road are causing significant damage to vehicles and providing an opportunity for wrongdoers to carry out their activities effectively.
Also, the report revealed that the road originating from Akure, connecting Owo, Oka, Akungba, Ikare, and several other smaller cities in Akoko land, is currently in a state of disrepair.
The deteriorated state of the road has given rise to challenges such as increased travel times, vehicle wear and tear, and impediments to economic activities in the area. Residents and commuters alike are grappling with the consequences of the road’s poor condition, calling attention to the urgent need for comprehensive repairs and maintenance to restore functionality and ensure the well-being of the communities it serves.
Despite the vocal concerns expressed by both students and residents, no action has been taken to address the deteriorating condition of the roads. The thoroughfares leading to various parts of the town continue to be in a state of disrepair, posing significant challenges for business women and residents alike.
The persistent neglect of these crucial transportation arteries not only hampers daily activities but also exacerbates difficulties for those reliant on the road network for their livelihoods and well-being. Immediate attention and remedial measures are imperative to alleviate the adverse impact on the community.
More Pains: Residents are Plagued with
Inside Akungba market| Boluwatife Adedokun
Similar to Mrs. Akinsola, Saheed Amuda faces the threat of income loss during rainy days, as his business becomes submerged in water, creating discomfort for everyone. He expressed his frustration, stating, “When it rains, this place is inundated, forcing us to abandon our goods. The sorry state of the road prevents customers from reaching us,” as he used one hand to protect his merchandise.
Situated along the road, Amuda’s business bears the brunt of adverse weather conditions. The deluge leaves his goods and those of others vulnerable to the elements, resulting in financial setbacks. The rising waters not only impede sellers from conducting business but also hinder potential buyers from navigating the area.
As the imminent rains approach, Saheed earnestly wishes for someone to respond to the collective plea for assistance. Unfortunately, contrary to this reporter’s observation, the local market persists in a state of precarious uncertainty. Saheed and fellow traders nervously scan the skies, unsure whether help will arrive in time.
Yemisi Elenukonwa, a fellow business owner, laments the profound toll that the deteriorating road has taken on her livelihood. Her goods frequently fall victim to passing vehicles navigating the muddy road, bearing the consequences of the ongoing struggle.
“It affects us seriously. People avoid the brook, and it pours my goods away. We plead for the government’s mercy to reconstruct it.” She lamented.
Not only businesses suffer, residents face same plight
Investigation reveals that the repercussions stretch beyond the business sector; nearby inhabitants, relying on the road for daily travel, confront challenges. Maneuvering through the rainy season becomes a precarious undertaking, impacting access to schools, healthcare facilities, and other vital services.
The formerly familiar roads now tell the shared story of a community wrestling with the elements and longing for sunnier, drier days.
Tosin Balogun, a resident, passionately implored the relevant authorities to intervene. “They should assist us in paving or asphalting the road,” she pleaded.
Balogun highlights that the current condition of the road not only disrupts daily life but also adversely affects the local economy. He emphasizes that businesses face a tangible threat of declining sales as customers divert from the muddy, impassable road, particularly during the rainy seasons.
Corroborating, Helen Samuel, a resident of Akungba and native of Osun State, bemoans the profound isolation inflicted upon the community due to the deteriorating road conditions. As a businesswoman, Helen expresses frustration over the disruption caused by water pooling around her shop due to poorly designed gutters.
She articulates the challenges of operating in such conditions, citing the unpleasant smell as a deterrent to potential customers, yet she finds herself compelled to endure these challenges because her shop is her only viable option.
“If the government can help us with asphalt, we would appreciate it.”
Helen’s appeal for government intervention underscores a fundamental right—the freedom to conduct business without undue obstacles. She, along with other residents, earnestly desires swift measures to alleviate the ongoing challenges they face.
Stakeholders Keep Mum
When contacted, the acting Chairman of Oka-Akoko Local Government, Hon. Augustine Oloruntogbe denied comments. Oloruntogbe said he’s not in the right position to grant an interview in relation to the bad roads.
