In the heart of the ever-busy Epe/Ijebu-Ode expressway, kakalistiq.com reports that a concerned youth from Epe has raised a poignant voice, calling on the Lagos State Government to prioritize the safety of commuters by installing essential speed bumps or speed breakers at critical bends, junctions, and intersections along the extensive network of roads from the Mojoda boundary to T-Junction and from Pobo Central Mosque junction to Temu axis, as well as the T-Junction/Eleko axia on Epe/Ajah expressway.
Expressing deep concern over the escalating number of fatal road crashes on the expressway, the youth emphasize the pressing need for preventative measures. The appeal is not only a personal concern but resonates with the collective sentiment of various organizations in Epe, such as The Emerald Blazers, which have tirelessly advocated for enhanced road safety. Letters have been dispatched to the government through relevant ministries and political officeholders, underscoring the urgency of addressing this life-threatening issue.
The Epe/Ijebu-Ode expressway is a vital artery connecting communities, schools, hospitals, markets, and numerous private and government establishments. Ancient communities like Poka, Odomola, Noforija, Eredo, Odo-Iragunshin, and Mojoda stand as a testament to the rich historical tapestry that borders this crucial roadway. However, the smooth road design, devoid of sufficient road safety measures, has become a silent hazard, claiming lives in tragic road accidents.
Furthermore, the Lekki-Epe expressway is a source of grave concern, facing similar challenges. The recently completed stretch from Epe T-Junction to Eleko, with the second phase still in progress, falls short of expectations. The absence of speed bumps, speed breakers, and traffic lights raises critical questions. Why are these essential safety measures lacking?
Drawing inspiration from the road safety measures implemented on similar busy roads, such as the Ejinrin Road in Ijebu-Ode Local Government in Ogun State, the youth question the apparent oversight in prioritizing road safety in Lagos State. The implementation of speed bumps on the Ejinrin Road stands in stark contrast to the Epe/Ijebu-Ode expressway’s current state.
The concerned youth questions the discrepancy, asking whether road construction engineers in Ogun State prioritize safety more than their counterparts who designed and constructed the smooth yet hazardous Epe/Ijebu-Ode and Epe/Ajah expressways. Despite the apparent dangers and rising fatalities, no tangible road safety measures have been implemented beyond a traffic light installation at Ita-Opo and Lagos Road (Roundabout).
The plea echoes a fundamental query: What is the value of every road user’s life compared to the financial cost of installing essential road safety measures? The youth underscores the urgency of the matter, urging the Lagos State Government, under the dynamic leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to activate concerned ministries and take swift action. As the year approaches its end, the youth look forward to a safer, accident-free travel experience on the expressway.
