Ogun State suspends Tinubu-backed federal road project in Sagamu, sparking outrage. Residents blame Governor Abiodun for ‘petty politics’.
A major federal road reconstruction project in Sagamu, Ogun State, has been abruptly suspended by the Ogun State Government, sparking widespread outrage among residents who accused Governor Dapo Abiodun of playing “petty politics” with public infrastructure.
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The Paddy–Arikawe–Oye Igbimo Road, awarded by the Federal Government to Minim and Tonye Nigeria Limited, was facilitated by Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel through the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA).
The road project was hailed by locals as a long-overdue intervention in one of Ogun’s most neglected areas.
But less than 48 hours after mobilisation, the Ogun State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure issued an immediate suspension order, claiming that the contractor had not obtained state-level clearance before starting work.
In a letter signed by Engr. Dr. Yusuf L.O., Permanent Secretary of the ministry, the state argued:
“Necessary permit/clearance was not obtained from the State Government before commencement. The action of the Federal Government negates the normal due process which ought to be followed before commencing work on a State Government road.”
However, the explanation has done little to calm rising anger across Sagamu. Residents have described the decision as politically motivated, and a direct attack on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s attempt to bring federal development to the state.
“There are thousands of bad roads in this state, yet this government is stopping the federal government from helping us? It’s wickedness,” one local trader told our correspondent.
Another resident called the move “a slap on Tinubu’s face,” saying:
“This isn’t Daniel’s personal project. It’s a federal intervention. Instead of encouraging it, Abiodun is blocking it because of personal beef.”
Observers suggest the decision may have political undertones, citing Governor Abiodun’s support for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo during the 2023 APC primaries — a move that reportedly fractured his relationship with Tinubu.
“There’s been tension since then, and this road project may be collateral damage,” a party insider noted.
The road in question — the Paddy–Arikawe axis— has reportedly been in disrepair for over a decade, with residents claiming it hasn’t seen major maintenance since Otunba Daniel left office in 2011.
“It’s not the first time. When Daniel facilitated the Aiyepe Road, the governor blocked it too. This is now a pattern,” a community elder alleged.
Officials from the Ogun State Government insist the halt was purely administrative, and that federal agencies must consult state authorities before executing any projects on state-owned roads.
But critics say such bureaucracy should not come at the expense of development.
“Tinubu is trying to help, and this government is standing in the way. It’s shameful,” a youth leader told our reporter.
Frustrated residents are now calling on the Presidency to intervene, warning that continued sabotage of federal projects could have political consequences.
“We’ll remember this in 2027. This is not about party lines anymore — it’s about performance,” a local resident said.
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As the federal project remains in limbo, pressure mounts on both the state and federal governments to resolve the standoff — and on Governor Abiodun to prove that politics isn’t taking precedence over the welfare of the people.
